Spaceport Cornwall Plans to Make Cornwall Europe’s Premier Future Air and Space Solution

Spaceport Cornwall has set its sights on becoming Europe’s premier destination for future air and space solutions, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Wholeship Ltd. The agreement, which also includes Cornwall Airport Newquay, aims to create a unique operational environment that combines the expertise and facilities of all three sites, propelling Cornwall to the forefront of aviation and space technology.

A New Era for Cornwall’s Aerospace Industry

The collaboration between Spaceport Cornwall, Cornwall Airport Newquay, and Wholeship Ltd—operators of the National Drone Hub at Predannack—marks a significant step towards establishing the UK as a global leader in both crewed and uncrewed flight technology. By leveraging over 5500 square kilometres of segregated airspace, the consortium plans to conduct UK flight trials of sub-scale air systems and test operating procedures at the National Drone Hub. This will enable Spaceport Cornwall to gather crucial evidence in support of future operational flights from Newquay.

Ross Hulbert, Spaceport Cornwall’s Head of Engagement, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that it offers the facilities, skills, and operational functions necessary for Cornwall to lead the way in the future of flight across Europe.

Strategic Collaboration with National and Industry Stakeholders

A key focus of the consortium is working alongside key partners such as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Department for Transport (DfT) to influence the future of airspace regulation. By uniting resources and expertise, the partnership seeks to modernise airspace, ensuring that UK skies are ready to accommodate advanced aerospace technologies.

The MoU also opens doors for potential collaborations with UK industry and the Ministry of Defence (MoD), further strengthening Cornwall’s position as a hub for innovative aerospace solutions. The ability to showcase Cornwall’s comprehensive future air and space offer to prospective clients is a significant advantage that Spaceport Cornwall intends to capitalise on.

Government Support for Cornwall’s Aerospace Ambitions

Mike Kane, the UK’s Minister for Aviation and Space, praised the collaboration, calling it a “significant leap forward” for the future of aviation and space. He highlighted the partnership’s role in establishing Cornwall as a world-leading location for cutting-edge aerospace technology and its contribution to the modernisation and regulation of airspace.

As Cornwall continues to build on its aerospace ambitions, this collaboration positions the region as a key player in the global aerospace industry, with Spaceport Cornwall leading the charge. The combination of advanced facilities, strategic partnerships, and governmental support ensures that Cornwall is on track to become Europe’s leading air and space hub, driving innovation and progress in the sector.

For more information, visit Spaceport Cornwall and Cornwall Airport Newquay.