Open Skies Network (OSN) and Cornwall Airport Newquay in the UK have today (May 18) agreed a partnership that aims to strengthen Cornwall’s position as an emerging global centre for advanced aviation.
As part of the agreement, OSN will gain access the airport’s newly-installed air traffic control radar, expanding its flight capabilities in the region and potentially supporting Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 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 the new partnership with Cornwall Newquay Airport complements the company’s ongoing work with ASONE Park at St Merryn Airfield, enabling it 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,” Whatmore said. “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 said the partnership with OSN supports the airport’s long-term strategy to diversify the airport’s revenues, brings new operators and capability to Newquay, and helps progress the practical delivery of advanced aviation services.
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