Master Plan for Airport
Written By : Terry Sara on Wednesday, 23 June 2010
Larger capacity jet aircraft could be flying into Port Macquarie Airport as early as next financial year after Council tonight adopted the Airport Master Plan 2010.
The Master Plan presents a 20-year vision for the Airport site considering the requirements for future airline operations, general aviation activities and commercial property development opportunities, and provides the framework and strategic direction to guide the future development of the Airport to underpin the region's economic development and tourism potential.
Under the Master Plan which aims to cater for up to 180-seat B737 and A320 jet aircraft, Council will upgrade the existing runway, construct a new parallel taxiway, expand the existing regular public transport (RPT) apron, as well as expand the existing passenger terminal and car parking facilities.
Administrator Garry Payne said, “The next step in the process will be to investigate funding options and develop a detailed Business Plan for the proposed works. If the Business Plan stacks up, we will then proceed with the detailed planning and design for the works.
“The Master Plan estimates that by 2030, up to 450,000 passengers will pass through the terminal each year so we are committed to upgrading the existing infrastructure and facilities to meet this forecast demand.
“Despite the fact that we have seen significant growth in airline services and passenger numbers over the past few years, further growth is now being constrained by the lack of suitable infrastructure to cater for larger jet aircraft. This constraint is subsequently impeding the region's growth and economic development potential," Mr Payne said.
“The upgrade which is expected to cost around $48 million will be staged over a number of years to suit the level of funding available. An economic impact study conducted in 2008 estimated that upgrading the Airport to cater for larger jet services would benefit the Mid North Coast economy by up to $29 million per year.
“Subject to the development of a viable Business Plan, work may start as early as next financial year,” Mr Payne said.
Contact: Terry Sara Communications Manager 6581 8214 or 0412 769 454