Next stage of airport master plan preparing for take off

The first stage of improvement works on existing taxiways at Wagga Wagga Regional Airport is underway.

Wagga Wagga City Council has advertised for suitable tenders to undertake strengthening and widening works on three taxiways at the Forest Hill-based airport.

The taxiway works align with staged upgrades outlined in the airport‘s 2011/12 adopted Master Plan. Council’s successful application through the Restart NSW Regional Tourism Infrastructure fund will fund the project.

Airport Manager Leon Burger said upgrading the taxiways has operational benefits, including allowing aircrafts to move on and off the runway quicker, which will help reduce delays and increase safety.

The improvements will also support increased aircraft traffic, including potential passenger growth and interest from a range of aviation businesses and operators interested in using Wagga Wagga airport.

“Wagga Wagga airport is one of the most significant regional airports in New South Wales, with one of the largest regional passenger throughputs in the state, as well as being an aviation industry hub, enabling economic growth and making significant contributions to the regional economy,” Mr Burger said.

“An effective taxiway network will maximise the operational capacity of the Wagga Wagga airfield, ensuring the airport continues to deliver for the region.”

The improvement works will widen and strengthen taxiways A, B and E on the terminal side of the runway, which will allow larger aircrafts to use the taxiways and assist with increased traffic.

Drainage works along the taxiways will also be included in the project.

Tenders for the taxiway project close Friday 28 July. Construction is expected to start towards the end of the year.

Terminal upgrades

In addition to the taxiway improvements, the airport’s terminal is also set for a major upgrade. Concept designs for the new terminal are in the final stages. The terminal upgrade is expected to be completed in two stages – stage one expansion of the existing terminal building, followed by stage two, internal upgrade and fit out. This project has also been funded through the Restart NSW Regional Tourism Infrastructure fund.