1st December 2009, at Newcastle International Airport
There were 19 members of the committee and NIA staff present and 4 apologies.
1. The minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
2. Matters arising included, investigation of low flying reports, update on noise action plan, tour of airport for new committee members and commercial membership of the committee.
3. John Murray, Senior Manager, UK Borders Agency, Northern England gave a most informative presentation on the organisation and objectives of the agency. He explained that Immigration, Customs and Visa Departments had been integrated into one multi disciplined agency. New technology was being introduced and UKBA would now be able to monitor both arrivals and departures as part of the E-border control system.. The chairman thanked John for his most interesting presentation.
4. There were no items to report on Chairman’s Business or the Secretariat.
5. The Airport Company Report highlighted punctuality, the best airport performance in the UK, the difficult economic conditions and their adverse impact on passenger movements and the changes in the number of flights by the various operators. Some of the changes were improvements and some services which had been reduced would hopefully be upgraded when the summer schedules came into operation. The Emirates route was continuing to show very high demand, but a planned New York route would be delayed until the economy improved.
6. Marketing Activities and Public Relations included plans to celebrate the airports 75th Anniversary, opposition to APD and support for the third Heathrow runway to safeguard regional slots. The new hotel is now planned to open in the Spring after overcoming some financial problems. Whilst environmental complaints remain very low the committee was reminded that a dedicated telephone line exists for any complaints and all complaints are investigated. Wind Turbines continue to be a source of concern because of their effect on the radar operation, however some changes are helping to reduce the problem.
7. Customer Service, a key element of the NIAL management, is under constant review with particular emphasis on baggage handling, passenger assistance, security checking and the performance of handling agents. New Service Handling Agreements have been agreed with handling agents and performance against these SLA’s will be monitored. The security area has been remodelled to improve performance and speed up the process. A new Ambassador programme has been set up in conjunction with Newcastle College and after training the Ambassadors will work to help passengers through the airport by answering queries and providing guidance and information.
8. There were no points raised under Any Other Business.
9. The next meeting will be on 1st June 2010