Newcastle International Airport has unveiled the name of its new 750,000 sq ft cargo hub.
AirLink is expected to create thousands of local jobs and boost the UK’s North East economy by up to £165mn a year.
The new site will serve as a key hub for cargo operators, freight forwarders and ground handling agents, according to the airport.
Its name was unveiled at MIPIM – a four-day property and investment conference held in Cannes, France, which brings together key players in the real estate industry, including investors, developers and business officials.
Alice Andreasen, chief sustainability and communications officer at Newcastle International Airport, said: “AirLink is a landmark development that could create high-quality jobs, generate millions for the local economy and unlock new opportunities for businesses.”
Located south of the runway, AirLink will provide its occupiers with direct apron access allowing cargo to be loaded and unloaded swiftly and efficiently from aircraft.
This makes it an ideal location for businesses handling time-sensitive shipments, such as pharmaceuticals, auto parts and other high-priority deliveries, the airport said.
The site also has excellent transport links and its close proximity to the A1 will ensure that goods can be quickly moved across the UK and beyond with ease, Newcastle added.
Once built, AirLink could generate up to 1,400 direct jobs, with an additional 1,200 roles being created through supply chains and with business partners.
The development is set to play a crucial role in supporting the airport’s growing cargo operations, which achieved a record high of handling over 6,000 tonnes in 2024.
Michelle Percy, director of investment and growth at Newcastle City Council, said: “Newcastle airport plays a central role in ensuring our city remains an attractive and accessible destination and the development of AirLink will provide a home for the ambitious, export-oriented businesses we are looking to bring to Newcastle.
“With the potential to create thousands of high-quality jobs, AirLink will strengthen the region’s logistics and supply chain capabilities, supporting key sectors such as advanced manufacturing and life sciences.”