Left : Artist’s impression of the proposed terminal at Gold Coast Airport
Airport operator Queensland Airports Limited (QAL) has unveiled its multimillion-dollar plan to expand Gold Coast Airport in Queensland, Australia.
Project LIFT (Lets Invest for Tomorrow) will address current peak hour capacity issues experienced at the airport, and will also accommodate the projected increase in passenger numbers over the next eight years. It will deliver better services for passengers, while creating jobs and other economic opportunities for the community.
Stage one of construction is due to commence in early 2016 and includes a three-level terminal development, three new wide-bodied aircraft stands, and provision for up to two aerobridges associated with the new infrastructure. This stage of the proposed redevelopment will be substantially completed in late 2017 ahead of the Commonwealth Games.
Subsequent stages of the project are scheduled to be completed in late 2018 and late 2020 and include further enhancements to the existing terminal building and an additional two wide-bodied aircraft parking stands.
David Collins, chief operating officer for Gold Coast Airport, said, “This redevelopment will ensure more efficient use of terminal space and offer increased capacity, meaning service for travelers is faster and more efficient, with broader retail choice. In recent years, Gold Coast Airport has experienced high rates of growth due to an increase in low cost and full service carrier airlines, both domestically and internationally. The airport currently services international markets in East and South East Asia and the Pacific.
“Recent investigations have found the capacity of aircraft parking stands is currently exceeded at peak times, and if no action is taken to provide additional aircraft parking by 2018, then access to the airport would need to be restricted. This could significantly impact the airport’s ability to service future domestic and international passenger demand.”
The existing terminal is also experiencing capacity issues during peak hours in the areas of check-in, international arrivals, domestic and international departure lounges, baggage handling, and domestic baggage reclaim. Internal redevelopment of the terminal is required to allow it to function more efficiently and effectively. Preliminary concepts include architectural and design features that capture the essence of the Gold Coast and create a memorable passenger experience.
Dennis Chant, managing director for QAL, said, “This significant investment demonstrates our confidence in the Gold Coast and its ongoing role as a major contributor to the Queensland and New South Wales economies. Project LIFT will allow us to meet forecast demand for the next eight years while also creating additional employment, generating further economic activities, and providing capacity for future growth.
“Importantly, the region will benefit through the creation of more than 230 full-time jobs during stage one of construction, while an additional 180 direct full-time workers will be required for ongoing operations. This development comes on top of the A$200m (US$149m) QAL has invested in the Gold Coast Airport over the last decade.”