Spaceport Cornwall

Spaceport Cornwall is a horizontal spaceport capability integrated with Cornwall Airport Newquay. The operator says the airport is developing operational capability under the Space Industry Act 2018, using existing 2,744 m x 45 m runway, fuel storage, navigation aids, surveillance systems, secure perimeter and rescue and fire services; the airport remains business-as-usual until launch operations commence. The UK Civil Aviation Authority register lists a spaceport licence for Cornwall Airport Limited issued 15 November 2022, but each spaceflight still requires mission-specific launch or return, payload and spaceport permissions. The former Virgin Orbit launch operator is listed by the CAA as defunct, so historical Virgin Orbit plans should not be treated as current activity. Cornwall Council owns Cornwall Airport Newquay and Spaceport Cornwall, with Goonhilly Earth Station providing mission management and satellite tracking within the consortium. This is a secure airport and operational-development facility, not a general walk-in visitor attraction; confirm current Spaceport Cornwall and CAA notices before travel. Visitor reference: Cornwall Airport Newquay, Newquay, TR8 4HP, United Kingdom.