The radar system at Cornwall Airport Newquay is to be replaced with a modern, high-performance system designed to keep skies safer and to deliver improved safety and reliability for passengers and operators.
The contract to undertake the award has been awarded to UK manufacturer Easat Radar Systems Ltd and is being part funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Funding via the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme.
The new system will help air traffic controllers manage Cornwall’s busy and diverse airspace more efficiently. It is a key part of the Cornwall Airport Newquay Development Strategy and supports the region’s growing role in aerospace, defence, and next generation aviation technologies.
Cllr Leigh Frost, leader of Cornwall Council, said: “This new radar system is part of a wider programme of infrastructure modernisation.
“The airport is at the heart of Cornwall’s economy, providing essential global links for business and our residents, and plays a key role in attracting investment into the region.
“This is exactly the sort of project the Shared Prosperity Funding is designed for, helping to unlock economic growth and create jobs, while improving safety and reliability.”
Dean McAllister, Senior Airfield Engineer at Cornwall Airport Newquay, said: “Safety is at the centre of everything we do at Cornwall Airport Newquay. Investing in a new Easat radar system is a long-term commitment to protecting the skies over Cornwall and the communities we serve.
“It strengthens the resilience of every flight that brings visitors to our county, supports local businesses, connects families and underpins vital services such as Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust and HM Coastguard.
“This project ensures the airport continues to operate to the highest standards as Cornwall’s primary air gateway.”
Matthew Jackson, Managing Director, Easat Radar Systems, said: “The systems we will be supplying - engineered for improved performance, exceptional detection, and reliable operation even in challenging environments - will equip Cornwall Airport Newquay (CAN) with a modern, future-ready surveillance capability that supports continued growth and operational excellence.
“I would like to thank CAN for placing their trust in Easat. We are excited to begin this partnership and look forward to working closely with the team to deliver a highly successful project.”
The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, launched in April 2022 and runs until March 2026. It is managed by Cornwall Council and funded with £186 million from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Its goal is to drive local economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen communities.
Visit the Good Growth programme website
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