Federal Nationals Member for Page Kevin Hogan has turned the sod on a $300,000 project to construct an aircraft run-up bay at Lismore Regional Airport.
Lismore Regional Airport is an important facility for the local economy. Pre-COVID it catered for around 12,000 flying passengers annually.
Mr Hogan said the upgrade will reduce runway congestion, improving the airport capacity and general safety on the runway.
“This funding is on top of the $4.47 million I secured to upgrade the airport infrastructure to allow for new aircraft landing systems,” he said.
“Our airport is used for pilot training, freight and charter operations, emergency medical transfers, search and rescue and bushfire fighting services, recreational flights, and public transport.
“This upgrade will provide a specific area for aircraft engine run-ups and flight control checks prior to aircraft taking off.”
Lismore City Council Mayor Steve Krieg said Lismore Regional Airport is a major economic driver, generating more than $26 million annually for the local economy and directly creating 57 jobs as well as 26 indirect jobs.
“I would like to thank the Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan and the Government for the grant to allow us to undertake this important project” Mr Krieg said.
“This project will not only improve safety for travellers and reduce congestion on the runway but will also help us to financially turn around the operation at the airport by allowing multiple aircrafts to use it at the same time.”
