Launceston Airport has signed a five-year commitment with Qantas Group, helping support further upgrades across the terminal and airfield infrastructure.
The agreement will support Launceston Airport as it invests more than $58 million in upgrades and help underpin the development of Tasmania’s vital tourism industry.
As a result, Launceston Airport will expand its arrivals hall, upgrade passenger amenities and improve seating in the departures hall and gate lounges.
The agreement also covers airfield improvements such as taxiway and apron slab replacements and airfield lighting upgrades that will help accommodate the ongoing growth in traveller numbers and cargo.
The new investments follow the recent expansion of the airport’s check-in hall and security screening point and the installation of self-serve check-in kiosks and automated bag drops.
Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said the deal is a win for Tasmania.
“This agreement with the Qantas Group gives us the certainty we need to press ahead with further investments in our terminal and airfield infrastructure, which will bring huge benefits to both passengers and the local economy”, Mr O’Hare said.
“The Qantas Group and its predecessors have a long and proud history in Launceston, and we are delighted to have them reaffirm their commitment to our region.
“QantasLink’s fleet of brand-new Airbus A220 jet aircraft and the delivery of more Dash 8 Q400 turboprop aircraft will give the airline incredible versatility and provides some exciting opportunities for network expansion out of Launceston.
“Jetstar’s low-cost model continues to help drive leisure travel into Northern Tasmania, and the installation of self-serve check-in kiosks and automatic bag drop will help incentivise increased services.
“Qantas has also started flying its larger Airbus A321 freighter aircraft into Launceston, providing more capacity to move Tasmanian produce to both domestic and international markets.”
QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan said the deal would deliver further customer experience improvements.
“This new agreement with Launceston Airport is testament to the Qantas Group’s ongoing commitment to Northern Tasmania.
“In the past few weeks, Qantas has had its newest aircraft, the A220, begin operating flights to both Sydney and Melbourne, improving the customer experience for tourists and locals travelling to Launceston.”
