A SMALL UK airport has been announced to be the best in the world, with 30 new flight routes.
Despite not being a major European transport hub, the airport beat out dozens from across the content to win the award.
Newcastle Airport was awarded global 'Airport of the Year'at the under 5 million passengers category at Routes World Conference in Turkey.
It was the only UK airport to be nominated across any of the categories.
Director of Aviation Development Leon McQuaid said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won this prestigious Routes World award.
"A big thank you to all of our airline partners for nominating us, which is great recognition for all of our teams’ dedication and hard work to deliver for our airlines.”
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Newcastle emerged victorious after beating four international airports – including Billund Airport, GMR Goa International Airport, Salzburg Airport, and Tulsa International Airport.
But the small airport proved to be the best.
Airlines across the globe praised the hub for its airline engagement, operational delivery and providing marketing and travel trade exposure.
Its recent successes also helped the airport to secure the award.
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Bosses added four new airlines, six additional based aircraft, and twelve brand new destinations.
And it also opened thirty new routes in the last year, with passengers able to fly to Egypt, UAE, Norway, and Cape Verde.
Chief executive Nick Jones said: “This achievement is testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees across the Airport.
"And demonstrates our commitment to providing the best customer service to our passengers and business partners.
"All of which allow us to win prestigious awards such as this.”
The prestigious conference sees Airlines nominate up to five airportsthat feel they have performed the best over the past twelve months.
A panel of airline judges then independently reviews the airport submissions.
This year Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport was crowned the overall winner in the top award of the night.
South Tyneside Council leader Tracey Dixon said Newcastle Airport is a real asset for the area.
She said: "It provides a key gateway to the region and generates millions of pounds for the local economy, as well as attracting inbound tourism."
Head of airports at InfraBridge Graeme Ferguson added: “We are delighted that Newcastle International Airport has been awarded Airport of the Year at these global awards.
"As a shareholder we've always focused on making Newcastle one of the best regional airports in the UK and this recognition has highlighted the exceptional service the airport provides its airline partners on a global stage."
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It comes as the airport was previously named the ‘Best Small Airport’ at the annual Airport Service Quality Awards.
Full List of Winners:
Overall Winner – Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
Airport Under 5 Million Passengers – Newcastle International Airport
Airport 5-10 Million Passengers – Larnaka International Airport
Airport 10-20 Million Passengers – Brussels Airport
Airport Over 20 Million Passengers – Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
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