NEWCASTLE AIRPORT EXPANSION TO ALLOW TAKE-OFF OF INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

24 February 2015

Minister for Planning Pru Goward was today joined by Liberal candidates for Port Stephens, Newcastle, Maitland, Charlestown and Wallsend to mark the completion of a major milestone in Newcastle Airport’s terminal expansion project.

Ms Goward said the completion of Stage 1 marks the beginning of a new phase in Newcastle’s history, with new facilities to allow for international and long-distance domestic flights.

“The $14.5 million project, which includes $11.1 million from the Baird Government, will mean increased capacity for additional domestic services, a more exciting retail offering and includes infrastructure capable of handling international flights,” Ms Goward said.

“The expansion will also open up the possibility for future routes to Adelaide, Perth, and Cairns as well as international services to New Zealand and South East Asia as demand continues to grow.

“The Baird Government is committed to investing in Newcastle’s future and the airport expansion is just one example of us putting our money where our mouth is.”

The 2,600m2 expansion of the existing terminal building, completed on time, includes a new arrivals hall providing a dedicated area for permanent customs, immigration, and quarantine facilities, in readiness for potential future international services.

Newcastle Airport’s CEO Paul Hughes said the new arrivals hall will offer a spacious and natural light-filled atmosphere for Hunter travellers.

“This extension allows for easier accessibility from all aircraft parking bays on our tarmac, making for faster transition times for patrons between aircraft and terminal,” Mr Hughes said.

“The achievement that I am most proud of is the readiness of our customs, immigration, and quarantine facilities.  We’ve been in discussions with airlines regarding direct international services for a while and now we have a building showing we are ready and able.”

Stage 2 of the expansion, beginning in the coming weeks, will involve a full refurbishment of the existing terminal which will become dedicated to check-in and an expansive departure lounge.

Liberal Candidate for Port Stephens Ken Jordan said the expansion will provide the local jobs and new possibilities the region needs for the future.

“Not only will the airport expansion boost the region’s visitor economy, but it will also mean more retail and aviation jobs for locals,” Mr Jordan said.

Liberal Candidate for Newcastle Karen Howard said the airport expansion builds on the Baird Government’s $1 billion infrastructure investment in the Hunter.

“This project demonstrates the Baird Government’s commitment to the future of the important Hunter Region,” Liberal Candidate for Maitland Steve Thomson said.

Liberal Candidate for Charlestown Jason Pauling welcomed the completion of Stage 1 saying the people of Charlestown will benefit directly from the investment that would follow as a result of opening up the region to the world.

“Finally after taxiing for 16 long years, the Hunter Region is ready to take off thanks to this fantastic milestone we’re celebrating today,” Liberal Candidate for Wallsend Hannah Eves said.

The entire project is expected to be complete in late 2015.