Work has begun on a $5.5 million works project to upgrade the runway and lighting at Deniliquin Airport.
The airport is an important hub for aviation in the Riverina and the upgrade is part of a Federal Government regional airport upgrade program to improve and replace regional airport infrastructure.
The Edward River Council-led project scope includes the removal and replacement of the existing 1,219m sealed runway (Runway 06/24) and the replacement of the runway and apron lighting systems.
The bearing capacity of the runway and taxiway will be improved, a new Aeronautical Ground Lighting system installed, along with a new lighting cubicle and associated infrastructure. New LED luminaires for the existing Illuminated Wind Direction Indicator (IWDI) and apron floodlights will increase safety during takeoff and landings at
night and in low visibility.
Edward River Council CEO, Phil Stone said there had been many options considered in the planning for the upgrade.
“We had lots of discussions during planning with airport users and stakeholders on what was needed and the best way to deliver that, looking at various options including lengthening the runway up to 3000m,” he said.
“The final project scope was to replace and strengthen the existing 1219m runway and the contract was awarded to Bild Group Construction. Since awarding the contract, we have had a lot of positive suggestions from local airport users, which has helped us plan how the project will be delivered.”
Mr Stone said the construction works will run through until late September 2023.
“We plan to be finished before the Ute Muster to minimise any disruption on this important weekend for our community. However, the final sealing of the runway will be dependent on weather, so if there are any delays due to rain, for instance, then we will make provision to allow aircraft to fly in for the weekend.”
Airport users, who were engaged during the design and planning process, have been advised of the closure of Runway 06/24 during the construction period and are being kept up to date.
