THE North-East’s largest airport will celebrate its 80th anniversary this weekend (Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26).

Newcastle Airport has served the region since July 26, 1935, and last year welcomed 4.6 million passengers.

The airport started its anniversary celebrations early in the year, when it premiered Newcastle International: Your Airport In Motion.

The film, made using hyperlapse photography, was produced by Jack Fisher and captured a day in the life of a busy airport.

Workers have also undertaken a number of charity challenges to mark the 80th year.

In June, several staff members, including chief executive David Laws, cycled 80km through Northumberland, raising more than £10,000 for charity.

Mr Laws said: “2015 has proved to be a massive year for us.

“We now find ourselves flying to more than 80 destinations worldwide and play a significant role in the region’s economy.

“Work continues to go on to make the airport bigger and better.

“Our £14m development of the terminal building is set for completion in September.

“We have a series of events planned for the remainder of the year and we plan to involve as many people in our celebrations as possible.”

  • Travel firm Jet2holidays has revealed it has seen a 32 per cent increase in passengers at Newcastle Airport this summer, with sales continuing to rise.