Merimbula Airport runway upgrades to attract more regional aircraft and visitors to state’s Far South Coast
A multi-million dollar upgrade to the state’s Far South Coast airport will allow the terminal to attract more visitors and tourism dollars to the Sapphire Coast.
The South Coast News
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Upgrade works at the Merimbula Airport have been given another boost, with the Federal Government announcing a $4.5 million funding injection to the regional runway.
This new funds will go towards improving the the existing runway to achieve a formal strength rating for the Saab340 aircraft used by Regional Express (REX). Federal funds will improve the current surface of the existing runway and will involve increasing the current strength through a reseal of the existing surface.
The improved landing strip will also accommodate other regional aircraft run by other carriers including the ATR72 and Dash8Q400.
Runway extensions, the addition of further general aviation infrastructure, such as taxiways and vehicle access, and the expansion of the commercial development of the airport site, are also planned.
Both Bega Valley Council and the NSW State Government have so far provided funding towards these infrastructure upgrades. Works planned for with State Government dollars included an extension of the runway 200 metres to the north of the site.
Mayor Sharon Tapscott said like all regional areas, the Merimbula airport was an essential link for the community to the rest of the country and the wider world.
“This project is needed to allow a greater range of aircraft and airlines to provide both passenger and freight services to the region,” she said.
“A more accessible airport will attract more domestic and international visitors to our beautiful Sapphire Coast and in turn provide a real boost to our local small businesses.”
Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro, Dr Fiona Kotvojs, said the Regional Airports Program funding for the upgrade will benefit the entire region.
“This funding for the runway extension and airport facilities upgrade will allow Merimbula airport to attract new routes by regional operators,” she said.
“It is an important source of jobs, as it helps to bring tourists and freight into the region.”
REX has currently adjusted its flight schedule at Merimbula due to COVID-19 restrictions. Before the pandemic, REX scheduled three arrivals and three departures daily from Sydney and Moruya and one arrival/departure from Melbourne.
Tumut airport will also receive more than $152,000 for improvements.
Further north upgrades to Moruya airport continue. $9.73 million, including $7.11 million in Government grants secured in 2016 and $2.62 million from Eurobodalla Shire Council were committed to the project.
Runway strengthening and lighting were upgraded last year. In February council began works on a new intersection at George Bass Dr to improve access to the airport.