Cornwall Airport Newquay has announced plans to launch a direct-flight package holiday programme to Tenerife in March 2027, offering two departures from the South West transport hub.
Partnership with Murray Travel
The airport has partnered with Murray Travel on the programme, which will feature two direct departures from Newquay to Tenerife on Friday, March 5 and Friday, March 12, 2027. This new charter operation responds to sustained passenger demand for additional winter sun destinations and package holiday options from Cornwall, according to airport officials.
Addressing Passenger Demand
"Feedback from passengers, route requests and booking trends across the airport's leisure network have consistently highlighted the Canary Islands as one of the most sought-after destinations," the transport hub stated. The initiative aligns with Cornwall Airport Newquay's broader strategy to enhance regional connectivity by offering more choice and convenience for passengers while reducing dependence on airports outside the region.
Regional Connectivity and Economic Resilience
Nigel Scott, commercial director at Cornwall Airport Newquay, emphasized the airport's role in strengthening regional connectivity. "Our role is about more than operating flights; it's about strengthening regional connectivity and ensuring people across Cornwall and the wider South West can access the destinations they want, directly from their local airport," he said. By partnering with Murray Travel to offer direct flights to Tenerife, the airport aims to make travel easier for local residents and reduce the need for "lengthy journeys to airports outside the county," while retaining more travel spending within the region. "It's another example of how we're working with partners to expand opportunities for our passengers while supporting Cornwall's long-term connectivity and economic resilience," Scott added.
International Growth at the Airport
The airport has experienced significant international growth in recent years, with international passenger numbers rising from 74,069 in 2022 to more than 203,900 in 2024. In April 2026, international passengers from Cornwall accounted for 66 percent of total traffic, up from 54 percent a year earlier, the airport reported.
Murray Travel's Perspective
Scott Murray, director at Murray Travel, expressed enthusiasm for the programme. "Tenerife remains one of the UK's favourite holiday spots, so we're really pleased to be able to offer this short trial programme and give customers in Cornwall and the surrounding area the chance to fly straight from their local airport," he said. He noted that the response to their Lapland day trip from Newquay has been incredible, demonstrating strong local appetite for convenient, direct flights to exciting destinations.
Financial Context
Earlier this week, a Cornwall Council corporate finance committee meeting heard that "quite serious" cost-cutting measures would likely be implemented at Newquay airport. The council's decision earlier this year to scrap the government-subsidised Public Service Obligation (PSO) service from Cornwall to London Gatwick has resulted in a drop in income at the council-owned airport.
