Newcastle Airport resumes operations after runway closure

Newcastle Airport resumed normal operations on Tuesday morning following a temporary runway closure on Monday night. The disruption was caused by an airfield issue involving runway lighting, which prevented night operations.

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) assisted in investigating the issue. While one report suggested the closure was related to an investigation into uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) breaching restricted airspace, airport officials confirmed the specific disruption to night operations was due to a runway lighting issue.

The operational setback occurred as the airport was celebrating being named ‘Australia’s Airport of the Year’ at the 2026 Australian Aviation Awards. The award recognized the facility's recent growth, including the delivery of a new international terminal and expanded route networks.