Escape the airport crowds from only £17.50 per person.

By the end of this year Newcastle International will handle 3.8 million passengers annually. That figure is set to leap to almost five million by the end of 2004 - a 31.5 per cent increase - thanks to the launch of additional scheduled, charter services and long haul destinations.

The rapidly growing airport has begun work on a £7 million redevelopment programme to meet customer demand for better facilities, shops and food outlets. It is also investing over £2 million in improving car parks and creating a new drop off and pick up area for international flights.

And to mark the start of this new era of growth and change, Newcastle International launched its new identity at an event for North East business leaders at the BALTIC The Centre for Contemporary Art. The new identity is designed to reflect the dynamic role the airport plays in the success of the North East and convey that message to passengers, airlines and partners.

Airport Lounges at Newcastle Airport

It's not much fun sitting in a crowded airport terminal in the height of summer, especially if your flight has been delayed. Treat yourself to the quiet comfort of a lounge normally reserved for business class passengers. Sit back and enjoy complimentary:

• Tea/Coffee
• Soft drink
• Alcoholic beverages
• Snacks
• Magazines/Newspapers
• Flight information

Each lounge is designed using imaginative textures and colours and make use of natural light and natural materials to provide a tranquil environment where you can relax, work, have a drink or just catch up with the news - it's your choice.

Important Information

Disabled access may vary in some locations, please check your individual requirements prior to booking.

Lounges located after Passport Control are not suitable for passengers on domestic flights unless stated otherwise.

For security reasons if you need to leave the lounge, you must take any luggage with you even if you wish to return.

Lounges have a smart casual dress code and expect reasonable behaviour from guests. Lounge staff reserve the right to refuse admission.

Smoking arrangements vary from lounge to lounge.

There is a charge for champagne. Other drinks and snacks are provided free of charge.

Lounge staff may announce your flight but cannot guarantee to do so. All lounges have flight information screens and you are responsible for catching your flight.

You may arrive at the lounge up to 3 hours before your flight time. Entry prior to this time will be at the discretion of the lounge staff.

In lounges which permit children they must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Please check your airline ticket for advice on check-in times.

As a general guide, passengers flying from Newcastle Airport are advised of the following check-in times:

• Domestic flights - 45 minutes to 1 hour before scheduled time of departure
• European flights - 1 hour
• Holiday charter flights - 2.5 to 3 hours prior to departure.