Newcastle Airport opens a free ‘Waiting Zone’ pick up area for cars and taxis
A free ‘Waiting Zone’ has opened at Newcastle Airport ahead of an expected record-breaking year.
Newcastle Airport has unveiled a new Waiting Zone for taxis and public vehicles as it gears up to welcome a record-breaking six million passengers in 2026.
The facility at Callerton Parkway, next to the Callerton Parkway Metro station, provides a safe area for vehicles to wait before picking up passengers - offering up to 90 minutes free parking for cars, taxis and minibuses.
The new Waiting Zone will replace the current 15-minute free drop off period in the Short Stay 2 car park.
From January 6, the airport will further invest in the site as it looks to introduce a complimentary electric shuttle bus service, which will initially run every 30 minutes and transport passengers between the waiting zone and the terminal front entrance.
The service aims to provide passengers with a convenient and accessible door-to-door service, with the zone located just a few minutes away from the terminal.
Dean Ward, Director of Commercial at Newcastle Airport, said: “2026 is set to be the busiest year in Newcastle Airport’s history.
“As a result of further investment from our airline partners, including the launch of easyJet’s new base in March, we are preparing to welcome a record six million passengers.
“To support this significant growth, we are delighted to expand our car parking facilities and open our new Waiting Zone, which provides the public and taxi drivers with a free, safe area to wait before picking up passengers.
“This new waiting zone is an important part of our ongoing investment to ensure we continue to deliver a world-class experience for our passengers, while further developing our infrastructure to support our long-term growth.”
John Littleton, of Woolsington Parish Council, added: “Woolsington Parish Council welcomes the opening of the new Waiting Zone for taxi drivers and the public.
“The safe, designated area for drivers to wait before picking up passengers will help reduce the number of vehicles parking on residential streets and keep our community safe.
“We strongly encourage everyone to make full use of the facilities provided by Newcastle Airport and park their vehicles safely and responsibly.”
The new Waiting Zone also has a 12-bay ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging station, which looks to support the airport’s goal of achieving a Net Zero Carbon status by 2035.
Planning permission has also been granted for a new drive-thru coffee facility at the site, with construction expected to start in the new year.
Newcastle Airport is investing almost £60million over 2025 and 2026 to upgrade and expand its facilities, including extending the terminal to create a larger departure lounge and international baggage hall.
For more information about Newcastle Airport, visit: https://www.newcastleairport.com/.