Newcastle international airport targets net zero carbon by 2035

Newcastle international has announced plans to become a net zero carbon emissions airport by 2035 as well as taking action to encourage airlines to reduce their carbon impact.

As most airports make plans to become net zero by 2050, Newcastle has set out to achieve the target by 2035 to coincide with the end date of its Masterplan and centenary year.

The announcement shows the airport’s commitment to taking action to become more environmentally friendly and to realise this, will take steps to procure and generate renewable energy as well as shifting to new technologies.

Over the next 15 years, a new fleet of electric vehicles will be introduced across the airport, including passenger and car park buses, together with improved facilities for customers with electric vehicles.

The airport is encouraging airlines to use the latest, most efficient aircraft, such as the A320 NEO, which delivers a 15 per cent saving in CO2 emissions and is already in operation at Newcastle international.

Newcastle is also a member of Sustainable Aviation, a group of airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers and air traffic service providers to work towards cleaner, quieter and smarter aviation.

Nick Jones, chief executive at Newcastle International Airport, said: “Decarbonising the airport before 2035 will be a challenge, but this is something that we feel strongly about.

“Newcastle international airport is an extremely important asset to the region, and we pride ourselves on being a good neighbour.

“The people of the North East are at the heart of everything we do, so it is vital that we make the changes needed to be able to grow the airport in a sustainable manner that protects the environment we all live and work in.”

David Rees, co-head of asset management at AMP Capital, said: “By making such investments into the future of aviation, Newcastle international is leading the way for the industry and we are delighted to see one of our assets making such positive steps.”

Councillor Iain Malcolm, leader of South Tyneside Council and lead of the LA7 local authority shareholders, added: “It is fantastic that Newcastle international airport is leading the way for aviation and contributing to the well-being of the planet with its Net Zero 2035 strategy.

“The airport’s Net Zero strategy aligns closely with the ambitions of the North East to be a low carbon region. Councils and combined authorities across the region have declared climate emergencies. Collectively, we can work to bring about positive change.”