Upgrades taking off Apron first part of airport refurb
APRON works that will allow extra flights to operate out of Townsville Airport have begun, signalling a step forward for its major upgrade.
The works are part of the airport’s $ 80 million redevelopment, which will include a $ 40 million terminal revamp.
The contract has been awarded to BMD Constructions, who have begun to rip up the asphalt before reconstructing the surface to make sure it’s strong enough to handle large aircraft.
Townsville Airport chief operating officer Kevin Gill said the $ 10 million project was the first part of the redevelopment and had been supported by a loan from the State Government.
“It’s more aircraft parking, more lay- off for aircraft, much more flexibility because at peak times during the day now we simply don’t have adequate aircraft parking for the various airlines,” he said.
“We are adding two of what we call Code C parking bays that can handle 737 and A320 aircraft which are the largest we operate.”
It comes as the terminal redevelopment remains stalled amid a lengthy stalemate with Qantas over a passenger charge increase.
Mr Gill said Townsville Airport remained committed to the upgrade and continued to “work with Qantas to make sure they can be part of Townsville’s next growth”.
Townsville MP Scott Stewart said the State Government invested $ 9 million in the project. “We’re seeing the tourism market is increasing, we’re seeing that the fly in fly out mining industry is in- creasing as well and that’s great news for North Queensland and particularly great news for Townsville,” he said.
Mr Stewart said there were 45 jobs involved with the project, including 35 locals.
BMD Constructions Queensland general manager Gerard Keynes said the firm was pleased to be involved.
“It’s very important for our people based here in Townsville to have the opportunity to work here,” he said.
“The generation of jobs throughout the construction phase is a sign of the strength of the Townsville economy.”
The apron works are expected to be complete in early March, subject to weather.