The Australian Government has approved the development plans for Adelaide Airport, as set out in the final version of its Master Plan. A draft version of the plan was released in October last year, which contained detailed development guidelines for the airport over the next five years, and further guidelines for the expansion of the airport over the following 20 years.
Over the next five years, the Master Plan envisages that approximately AU$1bn (US$820m) will be invested in the airport creating 3,500 new jobs, which will take the airport’s total onsite workforce to more than 12,000. The airport will also continue to welcome more airlines and cater for more flights to more destinations domestically and internationally.
Potential infrastructure projects over the next five years include an airport hotel, expansion of the southern end of the main terminal, expansion of the international arrivals hall, additional international arrival gates, expanding the main security check point, and more retail space and airline lounges.
Mark Young, managing director for Adelaide Airport, said, “As a major economic and employment generator, the growth of Adelaide Airport is inextricably linked to the development of South Australia. The approval of our Master Plan allows us to plan and commit to appropriate levels of infrastructure to stay ahead of this growth and maintain our reputation as one of Australia’s most modern airports.
“Any airport growth will continue to be balanced with the views of the community and with taking a sustainable approach to development. With this growth comes the responsibility to ensure any airport development is compatible with surrounding land uses and considerations of the community and stakeholders.”
