Hobart Airport’s runway upgrade paves the way for new tourism and export markets
The sky’s the limit when it comes to export markets and new tourism opportunities for Hobart as the first stage of a $130m runway upgrade begins. Here’s when the work will be complete.
Tasmania
Don't miss out on the headlines from Tasmania. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Direct flights to Asia are one step closer as construction officially begins for Hobart Airport’s $130m runway upgrade.
Designed to improve the safety and travel experience for thousands of passengers who pass through the precinct each day, the upgrade will make the runway fit for use by larger aircraft such as Boeing 787s and Airbus 350s, enabling the Hobart Airport to service long-distance freight and international flights.
Hobart Airport chief executive Norris Carter said the airport’s taxiways, ground lighting, electrical systems, and signage are also being improved, and the complete upgrade was on track to be completed by mid-2025.
“This is a highly technical project with hundreds of expert workers and specialist equipment involved,” Mr Carter said.
“They have a big job on their hands, to unlock direct access to the world for Tasmanian travellers and exporters, and all the opportunities that will come with that.”
Mr Carter said more than 30,000 tonnes of old asphalt will be removed, and around 100,000 tonnes of new asphalt will be placed over the three-stage project with the help of airport construction company Downer.
“The Stage One works have started on the northern end of the runway, temporarily shortening the runway by 829 metres,” he said.
“Travellers can be assured that there is still plenty of runway for safe landings and takeoffs, this just ensures we have a safe construction zone.
“Stage Two works on the middle of the runway are scheduled to start in October. This will include temporarily closing the runway each night after the last flight lands, upgrading an approximately 80m wide strip, and then reopening it before the first flight departs.”
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the Hobart Airport runway upgrades would help pave the way for new tourism and export markets.
“Upgrading the Hobart Airport runway will make a real difference to the economy of both the city of Hobart, as well as the state of Tasmania,” Ms King said.
“This will benefit tourists and exporters, with larger aircraft able to land at the airport, bringing in more tourists from further afield through an Asian hub.
“The works are another example of the Albanese government’s commitment to investing in infrastructure which creates jobs and unlocks growth in our regional economies.”
Federal Member for Franklin Julie Collins said the sky’s the limit when it comes to freight opportunities exported from the airport, saying the enhanced capabilities of the new facility will benefit local businesses looking to tap into the international marketplace.
“The upgrade will unlock more freight opportunities for Tasmania – which is already known for some of the best seafood, fresh produce, meats, dairy, and wines. This means a huge boost for the local agriculture industry,” Ms Collins said.
More Coverage
Originally published as Hobart Airport’s runway upgrade paves the way for new tourism and export markets
It’ll be a vine day for a tomato: Thousands to flock to annual sale
Walk, don’t run. The seriously popular Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens tomato sale is near. Here’s everything keen gardeners need to know.
Bus services axed after another spate of rock-throwing attacks
Bus services to some northern suburbs have been axed once again after another spate of rock-throwing incidents. The latest.