Launceston Airport is set to undergo a $5.15 million upgrade, the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport has announced.
Minister Michael Ferguson said the Tasmanian Government was committing the funds in the 2020-21 State Budget towards the expansion of the Launceston Airport departures and arrivals terminals.
“The total cost of the combined projects at the Launceston Airport is $10.3 million, with the airport contributing the remaining funds,” said Mr Ferguson.
“What we’re doing here is setting up the airport for a big, positive future for locals and visitors alike. At the same time, stimulating the Northern economy and further jobs,” he said.
“These changes will see improvements across the airport, including a larger and more contemporary arrivals experience, improved passenger security screening and a larger departures and check-in facility to accommodate the latest industry changes.
“Our contribution will also contribute to the development cost of a new air freight cargo facility at the airport to service increased air freight movement and to better support Tasmania’s live seafood, agriculture and general freight movements to both domestic and international markets.”
He said the Launceston Airport had grown significantly in recent years, and the terminal expansion would accommodate convenient passenger flows during arrival and departure.
“It will also increase capacity to service forecast growth in passenger traffic over the next eight years, which is expected to reach around 1.9 million passengers per year,” Mr Ferguson said.
“The Launceston Airport has taken a massive hit during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it has provided significant relief to multiple customers that normally operate from the airport precinct. This relief has ensured many of the companies and jobs operating on the precinct can continue as the airport resumes operations post-COVID-19.”
The Minister said the construction and procurement process would focus on local Tasmanian businesses.
“The Launceston Airport is Tasmania’s primary northern aviation gateway and will remain a vital part of our tourism sector, bringing visitors in and out of our state as we recover and rebuild a stronger Tasmania,” he said.
