Cornwall Airport Newquay has announced a major investment in its emergency response capability with the introduction of three next-generation aviation fire appliances.
New Rosenbauer Panther appliances deployed
Three new aviation fire appliances have been unveiled at the airport, including the 100th Rosenbauer Panther to be delivered in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The milestone marks a significant development for both the airport and Rosenbauer UK.
The vehicles will form a central part of the airport’s rescue and firefighting service, enhancing its ability to respond rapidly and effectively to aircraft-related emergencies.
Charles Dixon, Senior Airport Fire Officer at Cornwall Airport Newquay, stated that the new appliances represent a major investment in safety and resilience. The vehicles are designed to improve response times and support the continued safety of passengers, crews and airport personnel.
Enhanced performance and operational capability
The new appliances replace the airport’s original Panther fleet, which was introduced in 2008 when the site transitioned from military to civilian operations under Cornwall Council ownership.
Each vehicle is equipped with High Reaching Extendable Turret technology and can carry up to 12,000 litres of water alongside specialist firefighting foam. The appliances are capable of reaching incidents anywhere on the runway in under three minutes, meeting critical aviation firefighting requirements.
Supporting sustainability ambitions
In addition to improved operational performance, the new fleet supports the airport’s environmental objectives. All three vehicles will operate on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil as part of a 12-month trial. The renewable fuel has the potential to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 90 percent compared to conventional diesel.
Cllr Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council cabinet member, stated that the investment reflects the council’s commitment to the airport’s role in regional connectivity and economic development. The introduction of the new appliances also contributes to a transition towards more sustainable operations.
Rosenbauer milestone delivery
The delivery represents a milestone for Rosenbauer UK as the company marks its 100th Panther supplied across the UK and Republic of Ireland.
Ian Robertshaw, Managing Director of Rosenbauer, confirmed that the delivery highlights the company’s continued support for advancing airport firefighting capability. The Panther vehicles are designed to meet high standards of performance, safety and reliability within aviation fire operations.
Strategic importance of Cornwall Airport Newquay
Cornwall Airport Newquay plays a key role in regional connectivity, supporting commercial passenger routes across the UK and Europe. The airport also facilitates critical services including Cornwall Air Ambulance and HM Coastguard search and rescue operations.
The introduction of the new fleet forms part of ongoing investment in safety, operational resilience and infrastructure development at the airport.
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