Downer Group has been awarded the contract to upgrade Albany Airport, with construction due to start in late 2026.
The works include strengthening and resurfacing the main runway, upgrades to taxiways and aprons, improved airfield lighting, drainage works and CASA compliance upgrades. Once complete, the airport will be able to handle larger, more modern aircraft with up to 100 seats.
The project is jointly funded, with $14.7 million from the federal government’s Growing Regions program, $14 million from the WA Government and around $15.5 million from the City of Albany, which is leading the project. Downer was appointed after a two-stage procurement process designed to refine the design, manage construction risks and ensure value for money.
The upgrades will support regular passenger services, FIFO charters, Royal Flying Doctor Service operations and firefighting aircraft, and could pave the way for direct flights to the east coast.
WA Transport and Major Infrastructure Minister Rita Saffioti said demand for flights through the region was growing.
“Albany Airport is a critical gateway to the Great Southern, with more than 65,000 people travelling through the airport each year on regular passenger services alone,” she said.
Albany Mayor Greg Stocks said the project was a major milestone for the airport.
“This project represents the largest investment in Albany Airport’s airfield infrastructure in decades and will help secure the airport’s future as a key gateway to the Great Southern,” he said.
Work will be staged to minimise disruption to operations.