Cornwall Airport Newquay has been awarded the top prize in the Small Airport category at the AirportsUK Health & Safety Week Awards, while Cardiff Airport scooped the same award in the Medium Sized Airport category.

The annual event, which is marked at airports across the UK, runs in partnership with AirportsUK (formerly AOA) and is supported by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and aviation services provider, Leidos.

Andrew Boomer, Operations Director of Cornwall Airport Newquay, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this prestigious award. Health and safety are paramount in everything we do, and this accolade is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. At Cornwall Airport Newquay, we strive to create a safe and secure environment for all our passengers, staff, and partners, and it’s fantastic to see those efforts recognised on a national level.”

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Ceri Mashlan, Cardiff Airport’s Operations Director, said: “This is fantastic recognition for the entire team at both Cardiff and St Athan airports. Thank you to our teams who worked tirelessly planning and delivering such a successful event that we’ll all look back on with pride.”

Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith CBE, Chair of AirportsUK, commented: “The health and safety of passengers, staff, and local communities is the number one priority for airports across the country. These Health and Safety Awards highlight the ongoing commitment of our airports to create healthier, safer aviation environments. Congratulations to all of the winners and those who were highly commended.”

Neil Gray from the CAA, co-chair of the judging panel, praised the quality of this year’s entries, stating: “These were extremely difficult decisions this year, with amazing entries from airports all over the UK. Airports are key parts of the country’s infrastructure, and ensuring the safety of passengers and employees is the highest priority.”