The airport’s dedicated snow team consists of 45 members of staff who are on call on a rotation basis 24 hours for five months of the year. They worked intensively over the winter to keep the runway open, operating snow ploughs, show blowers and de-icing vehicles to keep disruption from escalating.
Dave Laws, chief executive of Newcastle International Airport, said: “We are very proud to welcome the Minister to the airport today. This is an extremely important time for aviation, and it is helpful to have the opportunity to communicate the vital role Newcastle Airport play’s in the North East. A number of issues were discussed today including our part in the growth of regional business and how APD impacts on the airport. The snow team also talked about what we achieved this winter. The outstanding effort and dedication of the workforce meant we were able to provide passengers with their service for the vast majority of the time. We received fantastic feedback from airlines, business partners and stakeholders which further reinforced what an asset the airport is to the region.”
Transport Minister, Theresa Villiers, said: “The severe weather we experienced before Christmas was truly exceptional, resulting in disruption right across the UK’s transport network. However, equally exceptional was the dedication and effort of many transport workers up and down the country to get people moving again. Christmas should be a time when families and friends can get together – and I would like to applaud all those at Newcastle Airport for their hard work to make this possible.”
James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “International connections are vital for the North East. Newcastle Airport is a tremendous asset and it is hugely valuable that the Minister has been able to learn about how essential it is for the North East business community to maintain international links.”
Newcastle Airport invested heavily in its winter operations fleet over the past two years. This ensured the team was fully equipped to tackle the most intense snow showers and deliver a reliable service to passengers. The airport’s winter strategy is adapted and developed each year to maximise efficiency- preparation, communication and dedication are the driving factors which enable the operational team to achieve the results they do.
For all press enquiries regarding Newcastle International Airport, please contact Nicola Quinn on 0191 214 3568 or nquinn@newcastleinternational.co.uk.