Canberra Airport releases the five-year master plan
Managing Director Stephen Byron said: Almost 16 years ago, we set out with a vision to create the best small airport in the world. Our previous master plans in 1999, 2005 and 2009 outlined the approach needed to achieve that and we have invested heavily in delivering a national infrastructure asset of which the Canberra Region community can be justly proud.
Canberra Airport has unrivalled environmental credentials, iconic design features, world- class amenities, and passionate community support. This is what we said we would deliver and we have done it, notwithstanding the impacts of airline collapses, SARS, 9/11, the global financial crisis, volcanic ash plumes and a host of potential deal-breakers along the way.
With the new terminal finished, internationally capable and ready to connect the Canberra Region directly with the rest of the world, Mr Byron said the focus of the new master plan was delivering a landmark transport hub incorporating air, rail and road transport.
How this will benefit the 900,000 people living in the Capital Region cannot be underestimated and is not yet widely comprehended. International flights are the main thrust of our efforts to drive aviation growth and optimise the asset. It is in Australia national interest that our Capital City is directly connected with Asia, Mr Byron said.
We believe that our future growth and development is linked closely to the economic growth and prosperity of our community, and this draft master plan outlines our vision to help achieve that. Cutbacks in the public service (and significantly for us its travel budget) have shown that our Region can no longer rely on the public sector as the driver of economic activity, but that our future lies in diversifying and attracting new businesses and industries, particularly those that reflect the strengths of our Region: smart offerings in education, tourism, IT, defence and security, transport, light manufacturing and niche agricultural opportunities. Canberra Airport stands poised to play a key role in that future.
The draft master plan has been prepared in accordance with the Airports Act 1996, and in consultation with the community and key airport stakeholders. It is available for viewing during the consultation period on the website at www.canberraairport.com.au/masterplan or in person during business hours at 1st Floor, 2 Brindabella Circuit, Brindabella Business Park. Canberra Airport invites written comments on the draft master plan until close of business Friday 13 June 2014 to 2 Brindabella Circuit, Brindabella Business Park, Majura ACT 2609 or via email to masterplanteam@canberraairport.com.au.