Green field recreational airfield for ACT?

The Canberra Region Aviators Association Inc. (CRAA) is lobbying the ACT Government to create a green field recreational airfield in the nation's capital.

The move, initiated last year, comes after the closure of the flying school arm of Brindabella Airlines, the last remaining flying school in Canberra. It was only a decade ago that a total of six flying schools were operating on the Canberra airfield.

Below are some excerpts on the matter from the latest CRAA newsletter:

- "We have arranged a meeting with the ACT Government to discuss opportunities to work with them more closely and progress our efforts to establish a secondary airfield within the Territory. In preparation for this meeting we are undertaking an impact study to determine the broader economic effects of establishing a secondary airfield facility. In other words, the airfield we hope to establish will create employment and add to the bottom line for the government."

- "Aviation is struggling in Australia and this is becoming very apparent here in Canberra and elsewhere. Our vision for a secondary airfield is an attempt to address some of the issues facing aviators. It will provide an ideal location for ongoing flight training services as well as the associated businesses of maintaining and repairing aircraft. Furthermore, by supporting and nurturing the growth of a vibrant new industry in the Territory, it will aid in the development of a diversified economy."

- "As you are no doubt aware, any project such as this is absolutely dependent on community support…it is important that we are all actively involved in this process in order achieve our goals. We welcome anyone who supports us and is interested in securing a future for aviation in the Capital region."

For more info visit www.craa.org.au.

As previously reported, the ACT Government has earmarked $50,000 in its new budget for a feasibility study into the viability of building a new airport at Williamsdale, on the ACT-NSW border, to cope with growing demand.