Nexus extends night-bus trial for journeys to Newcastle International Airport
A night-bus that runs to Newcastle International Airport has been extended following a successful trial period.
Nexus has revealed that a night-bus running to Newcastle International Airport has been extended through to March 2026 on the back of a successful trial period.
The 787 service, which is is being funded by the North East Combined Authority, operates between Newcastle city centre, the city’s west end, and the airport every day between the hours of 2.50am and 5.20am.
The brand new route was launched back in March in an effort to support shift workers and allow holiday makers to get to the airport.
Due to the service proving popular with residents in west Newcastle and its ability to support the city’s night-time economy, it will now remain in place.
John Souter, head of customer service operations at Nexus, has spoken of his joy that the service will remain in place due to the success of the trial period.
He said: “We’re delighted to say that the 787 night bus will be staying in service through to March of 2026 following a successful trial.
“The route has proven to be useful link between the centre of Newcastle and the western parts of the city, before providing that connection to Newcastle Airport.
“The 787 has provided an entirely new connection to the Airport during the early hours of the morning. It’s become a really useful link for supporting the city’s night time economy, airport workers and people who need to catch early morning flights.
“It’s a great option for people who need to get to the airport during the night, when most other public transport services are not running. It’s proven particularly popular with people living in west Newcastle.
“Funding from the local Bus Service Improvement Plan has made this possible. We have carefully assessed the demand and this has led the route being extended for a further 15 months.”
Cllr Martin Gannon, North East Combined Authority Cabinet Member for transport and Leader of Gateshead Council, highlighted that the bus provides an affordable way of getting to Newcastle International Airport.
He added: “I am pleased that our region’s bus funding is extending the 787 route until March 2026.
“It has been well-used since it launched earlier this year and it’s great to see our funding in action, helping more people travel by bus for all types of journeys.
“The 787 night bus service will continue to help both holiday makers and staff travel in a convenient and sustainable way to the airport during the early hours, as well as supporting workers in the night-time economy.
“Passengers can also make use of our region’s ticket offers on the service – including the affordable £1 fare for those aged 21 and under, so it’s an affordable way to travel.”
Fares on the 787 service are in line with other secured Nexus bus routes, with a short single (a journey of less than 2km) costing £1.80.
A longer single (a journey of more than 2km) costs £2, a day ticket costs £3.70 and a weekly ticket costs £17.
Child singles (for those aged 21 and under) cost just £1.
Multi-modal products that can be used on all buses and the Tyne and Wear Metro are also sold and accepted on the 787.