ALBURY Council is still holding out hope other airlines will consider adding the city to their networks when a $3 million plus upgrade of the airport taxiway is completed mid-year.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Passengers using the airport will benefit from reduced take-off and landing delays when the improvements are carried out by Sydney-based company Antoun Civil Engineering.
The contract for works was awarded late last year.
They started on February 11 and will reconstruct, reshape and widen the shoulders of taxiways Alpha and Echo.
Taxiway Charlie will also be improved and will be reconstructed in stage one which is expected to take 16 to 19 weeks to complete.
Works on the other two taxiways are expected to be completed in mid-May.
Cr Henk van de Ven said the works would benefit travellers and airlines.
“Obviously, passengers will appreciate the reduction of any delays in beginning or completing their flights," he said.
"But the taxiway improvements will also create more efficient options for landing and exiting the runways, helping to cut fuel costs for carriers.
“This ticks an important box for any new airlines that might consider adding Albury-Wodonga to their networks.”
Airport operations team leader David Costello, said the works were part of the airport masterplan.
The masterplan was ticked off by council last week and provides a long-term strategy to meet growing demand for passenger services, emergency and defence aircraft and aviation-related business expansion.
“Our airport is a gateway not only to Albury-Wodonga but also to the wider area," Mr Costello said.
"By improving the taxiways we’re laying important groundwork that will support businesses and leisure travellers across the entire region.
The total cost of the taxiway upgrades will be $3,024,995.41 with the Antoun Civil Engineering the only submission within the allocated budget.
It follows completion last year of a major upgrade of the airport to deliver an expanded arrivals hall and passenger lounge, baggage carousel and Uiver Café.