OUR multi-million dollar airport upgrade is yet to start four months after receiving planning approval.
The $25 million project, as approved under the development application, would expand the Port Macquarie Airport’s passenger terminal, boost parking and upgrade the main runway and associated infrastructure.
A Port Macquarie-Hastings Council statement said the council had been working closely with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in order to obtain regulatory approval for the proposed airport upgrade.
A council delegation met with senior CASA representatives last week in Canberra to discuss proposed changes to the CASA aerodrome standards and the possible impact on the proposed upgrade and future operation of Port Macquarie Airport.
The statement said while these discussions had been positive, the council was awaiting formal confirmation from CASA as to the specific requirements for Port Macquarie Airport before reviewing options for moving forward with the project.
Council’s director corporate and business services Craig Swift-McNair said in reviewing the new CASA requirements, the council was mindful to ensure the proposed upgrade not only achieved the short-term aim of facilitating the introduction of new jet services, but also safeguarded the airport’s future operation for these services in accordance with CASA and International Civil Aviation Organisation standards.
The airport redevelopment will be funded with $15 million from the federal government in addition to a $10 million council contribution.
