REPRESENTATIVE from the Australian Government and Port Macquarie-Hastings mayor Peter Besseling will officially open the Port Macquarie Airport Stage 1A airside upgrade project on Thursday 13 March.
The project forms part of the Mid North Coast Regional Aviation Plan, which also includes improvements to Taree and Kempsey airports.
The $21 million upgrade (to the runway, taxiway and RPT apron) was funded through a $15 million Community Infrastructure Grant from the Australian Government, with $6 million from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council (via the Port Macquarie Airport business unit).
Mayor Peter Besseling said the official opening would mark an important day for the Hastings community, with the upgraded runway now providing the capability for up to 180-seat B737/A320 aircraft for the first time in the airport’s 60-year history.
The upgraded infrastructure and facilities will promote further growth in air services and passenger numbers at Port Macquarie to underpin the region’s future growth, economic development and tourism potential.
Cr Besseling said it was important to highlight that the upgrade had been delivered with no impact on council’s general rate fund or at the expense of other council projects or services.
The official opening will include speeches and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.
