The Hobart Airport upgrade is set to expand the capacity of the runway to better enable long-distance freight and wide-body international flights.
Once works are completed, the runway, taxis and apron will be fit for use by larger Code E aircraft such as Boeing 787s and Airbus 350s.
The upgrade will also support direct flights to Asia for the first time and increase the airport’s capability as Australia’s Antarctic gateway.
Along with works to the runway, taxiways and apron, the project includes renewal of aeronautical ground lighting and electrical systems upgrades and will extend the runway’s operational lifespan well into the future.
Construction is set to be complete by May 2025.
The Federal Government has committed $60 million towards the $130 million project, with Hobart Airport to provide the remaining $70 million.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that Hobart Airport welcomes more than 2.8 million passengers per year and that, thanks to this runway upgrade, that number is expected to climb, boosting tourism and the local economy.
“Direct Hobart to Asia routes will also allow exports to reach their destination faster, in better quality, greatly benefiting Tasmania’s world-famous businesses and producers – particularly the fresh produce sector.”
Federal Member for Franklin, Julie Collins, said that this vital upgrade will further increase Hobart’s infrastructure capabilities as Australia’s Antarctic Gateway, helping to support and grow economic activity from the Antarctic and Southern Ocean sectors in Tasmania.
“It will also provide a welcome jobs boom for our region and transport industry, creating nearly 200 construction jobs and a further 1,261 ongoing jobs across Tassie,” Ms Collins said.
Hobart Airport CEO, Norris Carter, said that the runway will pave the way for non-stop international flights between Tasmania and Asia and one-stop flights to Europe.
“It’s a dream that is now fast becoming a reality, with work expected to be completed in mid-2025 and the first wide-body aircraft to touch soon after,” Mr Carter said.
“Our $70 million investment in the Runway Project and $200 million terminal redevelopment are all part of our plan to build better Hobart Airport and make tomorrow’s Tasmania possible.”
Image: Summit Art Creations/shutterstock.com
