Gold Coast Airport cleared for take-off

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THE FEDERAL Government has approved a major terminal upgrade for Gold Coast Airport.

Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Warren Truss said the Gold Coast Airport expansion would cater for future growth and the increased passenger numbers expected during the upcoming 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

“Gold Coast Airport currently services around 6 million passengers per year, which is forecast to grow to 16.3 million passengers in 2031,” Mr Truss said. 

“In the immediate future, more than 117,000 visitors, 5,000 athletes, 2,000 officials and 2,700 media representatives are expected to travel to the Gold Coast for the 2018 Commonwealth Games, with most arriving through the airport.

“The major redevelopment of the airport will almost double the size of the terminal, expand the apron to accommodate five additional aircraft stands and incorporate four new aerobridges — a facility long awaited by travellers.

“The expansion will also include a consolidated ground transport facility incorporating: a relocated taxi staging area; covered boarding for coaches, mini-buses and limousines; covered pedestrian walkways; and circulation roads for all ground transport modes.”

Mr Truss said the airport upgrade would create significant economic benefits for the region by generating additional employment, stimulating economic activities and facilitating tourism.

“Approximately 230 full time jobs will be created during construction, while an average of 180 additional full time workers employed once the expanded terminal is completed,” Mr Truss said.

“The development is expected to generate additional tourism expenditure of around $62 million per year and contribute approximately $426 million to the Gross Regional Product over 20 years from 2015–16 to 2034–35.”

The majority of works are expected to be completed by the end of 2017, in time for the 2018 Commonwealth Games. The apron and taxiway expansion will be completed in two stages, by early 2021.

www.goldcoastairport.com.au

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Details of the development can be found on the Airport's website:

http://goldcoastairport.com.au/regulatory/gold-coast-airport-project-lift-major-development-plan/

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