Airport Airside Upgrades
Mayor Clare McLaughlin and Airport Manager Brad Benson standing out on the new apron
Works on a major airside upgrade to the Whyalla Airport are nearing completion, with all but the resurfacing of the secondary runway and additional electrical work to be completed.
The airside works were the last element of the $12.1 million upgrade - partially funded by the Federal Government – which has resulted in a new terminal, with improved facilities, upgraded runways and improved safety and security measures, ensuring compliance with new Federal Government screening requirements and airport standards.
Mayor Clare McLaughlin said the works – including the installation of the new taxi way – have been constructed to allow for the landing and departure of larger aircraft.
“The redevelopment works will ensure we can cater for a wider range of aircraft, which will open up a host of opportunities, while ensuring we meet the changing and potential future aviation demands required for our city,” Mayor McLaughlin said.
Whyalla City Council Airport Manager Brad Benson said the completed upgrades to the apron and runways will ensure the safety and moveability of aircraft and passengers while airside.
“The apron is larger and includes a third parking bay, which has been designed to hold larger aircraft and allows more space and a smoother transition for the existing carriers,” Mr Benson said.
“It has also been redesigned to ensure the Royal Flying Doctors Service and South Australian Ambulance Service have a safe pick up and drop off area without the need to drive across a live apron.
“We expect the upgrade project to be complete by the end of the year, when we can reseal the secondary runway in the warmer weather.”
Another exciting opportunity for the community to engage with the Whyalla Airport will be targeted at local artists.
“We will be seeking expressions of interest from the local artistic community to showcase their Whyalla-themed artworks on the airport terminal walls,” Mr Benson said.
“It was important to involve the community in enhancing the terminal building, so we are looking forward to working with local artists to support and showcase their work, and provide a platform for visitors to see what Whyalla has to offer.”
More information on this opportunity will be released soon.