Albury Airport has opened an extension to Taxiway Alpha at the western end of its runway, completing a $2.88 million infrastructure upgrade funded through the federal government's Albury Wodonga Regional Projects initiative.
The extension eliminates the need for aircraft to backtrack along the runway after landing or before take-off, a common source of delay and operational friction at regional airports. The improvement is expected to streamline movements, reduce congestion and enhance safety, particularly during emergency response events where rapid aircraft positioning is critical.
The project also opens access to the airport's Western Precinct, identified in the airport's long-term planning as a priority area for future aviation services development. Albury City Council Mayor Kevin Mack said the upgrade positioned the airport to meet growing demand.
"Albury Airport plays a critical role in connecting our region to major capital cities, supporting local business, tourism, emergency services and freight movement," Mack said. "This project positions the airport to support future growth and gives us greater capacity to respond to increasing aviation demand over the long term."
Federal Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain said the investment would deliver tangible operational and economic benefits for the Albury-Wodonga community. "The runway extension will help the airport to expand in line with demand and provide economic benefits and travel opportunities for Albury-Wodonga communities," she said.
The taxiway extension forms part of the airport's broader infrastructure strategy to accommodate increasing aviation demand and enable long-term growth. Albury Airport serves as a key transport link for the border region, with regular services to Sydney and Melbourne.