Open Skies Network (OSN) and Cornwall Airport Newquay have today agreed a partnership that will strengthen Cornwall’s position as an emerging global centre for advanced aviation.
As part of the agreement, OSN will gain access to the airport’s newly-installed air traffic control radar, expanding its flight capabilities in the region and potentially supporting NHS medical drone deliveries between mainland Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Cornwall Airport Newquay will also become part of OSN’s network of New Aviation sites around the world, supporting the airport’s diversification beyond traditional, commercial-flight revenues and complementing the work of Spaceport Cornwall.
Gareth Whatmore, CEO of Open Skies Network, said: “This new partnership with Cornwall Newquay Airport complements our ongoing work with ASONE Park at St Merryn Airfield, allowing us to support aircraft that need longer runways while providing the close-proximity, dual-site capability required by certain new aviation service providers.
“Next generation, sustainable aviation – such as drones, autonomous and electric aircraft – represent an exciting opportunity to improve services and local connectivity, as well as attracting valuable inward investment to the region.
“As with all innovations, there is a lot of work involved with developing the networks, capabilities and infrastructure to support those services. That is why this partnership with Cornwall Airport Newquay is so important – both strengthening OSN’s regional and international offer but also supporting delivery of a wide range of advanced aviation projects in the local area, from R&D and demonstration activities to delivery of healthcare, specialist transport, and logistics services.”
Nigel Scott, Commercial Director, Cornwall Airport Newquay: “Cornwall Airport Newquay sits at the heart of one of the UK’s most exciting, advanced aviation clusters.
“The partnership with Open Skies Network strengthens that offer. It supports our long-term strategy to diversify the airport’s revenues, brings new operators and capability to Newquay, and helps move the practical delivery of advanced aviation services – from healthcare logistics through to sustainable flight – a step closer for Cornwall.”