Published on 20 August 2026
Progress on main runway
Construction of the upgraded main runway is continuing to progress well, the ground beneath the main section of the runway has been strengthened and the first layers of the new runway constructed, bringing it to around the same height as the original runway. Work has now started on the next stage, which involves building up the runway with three additional layers of specially manufactured base material.
Once complete, the upgraded runway will sit approximately 40 to 50cm higher than the original runway, this extra height will improve flood immunity and resilience during future events.
Works start on next stage of Airport Road upgrade
Works on Stage 2 of the Airport Road upgrade started last week and will continue until October 2026. This project involves rebuilding the road pavement, signage and intersection improvements at the Wills Developmental Road turnout, and constructing concrete embankment protection to improve the road’s flood resilience. This follows previous Airport Road upgrade works completed in late 2024, which included a minor realignment of the road and upgraded culverts and scour protection. Current access is via Rubbish Tip Road and a purpose-built access track to the interim runway.