South West could lead next generation aerospace

Spaceport Cornwall shortlisted

Spaceport Cornwall, based at Cornwall Airport Newquay, has been shortlisted by the European Space Agency (ESA) as a potential location for the agency’s pioneering INVICTUS hypersonic flight test programme.

If successful, this would position Cornwall and the UK at the forefront of next-generation aerospace and space flight. Machrihanish in Scotland has also been shortlisted.

INVICTUS will deliver a first-of-its-kind European hypersonic flight test platform, bridging the gap between ground-based research and full-scale flight demonstrations. The capability is intended to support advances in reusable launch systems, high-speed flight and next-generation aerospace development for civil, commercial and defence applications across Europe.

Working in partnership with Frazer-Nash Consultancy, Spaceport Cornwall bid to host INVICTUS test activity, drawing on its multi-role status as a licensed spaceport, commercial airport, civil aerodrome and active military operating environment adjacent to RAF St Mawgan.

A spokesperson for Spaceport Cornwall said: “The site brings together one of the UK’s longest runways, extensive flexible airspace suited to hypersonic flight profiling, established horizontal launch infrastructure, direct access to controlled Atlantic corridors and the coexistence of both civilian and military aviation facilities.

“This environment provides an unparalleled setting for the demonstration and testing of technologies that will underpin reusable spaceplanes, advanced propulsion systems and sovereign hypersonic flight capability.”

Noah Law, St Austell and Newquay MP, added: “INVICTUS would be an immensely welcome long-term partner and the kind that such a fine aerospace asset as Spaceport Cornwall – with one of the longest runways in the country and dedicated airspace – deserves.”

The benefits extend far beyond space. INVICTUS will create hundreds of highly skilled jobs in UK regions, attract inward investment and anchor advanced aerospace capability.

“Being shortlisted for INVICTUS is a significant moment for Spaceport Cornwall and underscores our commitment to advancing the UK’s future flight and hypersonic ambitions. Our world-class facilities, operational versatility and strategic position within both civilian and military aviation infrastructures place us in a leading role to support this transformational European programme,” said Ross Hulbert, head of engagement at the spaceport.