Nine million dollars is being invested to upgrade airside infrastructure at the Port Hedland International Airport (PHIA).
The works are being carried out as part of the PHIA’s redevelopment project which will see the facility transformed into the North West’s leading flight and freight hub.
The airport’s main apron is being extended by 50 metres to allow for larger aircraft and enable additional planes to be on the apron at any one time.
“The commencement of our airside infrastructure works is an important milestone for the Port Hedland International Airport,” CEO Mal Osborne said.
“We are investing in our aprons and runways which will lay the foundation for the redevelopment program.
“The $3.3 million apron extensions will improve airside operations efficiency and reduce schedule conflicts by allowing for additional aircraft parking bays.
“The extended apron will also pave the way for international freight businesses to base their operations at our airport.
“The Town is also resurfacing the runway as part of required maintenance, which is estimated at $4 million.
“In addition to the apron and runway works, the Town has allocated $1.7 million to upgrade electrical infrastructure including the precinct’s ring main and runway lights.
“Together this represents an allocation of nearly $9 million in infrastructure as a basis for the precinct’s redevelopment.”
He added that when passengers were next at the airport, they would notice some key changes in the landscape.
“Noticeably the old southern hangar, previously occupied by Polar Aviation, has been sold and removed from site to allow for apron extension works.”
The Town of Port Hedland Council has committed $70.5 million towards the PHIA redevelopment program, including terminal refurbishment, logistics precincts, freight hubs and realignment of ground transport.
Strategic reviews are currently underway with construction expected to commence in mid-2014.
For more information on works happening at the Port Hedland International Airport, please visit the website at www.porthedlandairport.com.au.