Air safety for regional passengers flying in and out of Armidale Regional Airport will be improved with funding of $1.8 million from the federal government to install security screening.
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Modifications to the airport to accommodate new security screening equipment are almost complete and include readjustment to internal walls inside the terminal, new CCTV network, back-up generators and airport apron modifications.
Armidale Regional Council General Manager Businesses Scot MacDonald said the introduction of security screening will provide a seamless safety experience for passengers using QANTAS services out of Armidale Airport.
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"Very few councils operating airports would have the financial capacity to absorb this cost," Mr MacDonald said.
"This shows a strong commitment from the Australian Government to support critical infrastructure, like airports that are vital travel links to regional Australians."
But with it now proceeding, specialist security screening equipment is on order from the United Kingdom and expected to be installed during October.
Tenders will soon be advertised for a security screening provider with passenger screening expected to be in operation by the end of the year.
The airport precinct is continuing to big a big focus of further development for council and a recent announcement from Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce of a further $1.227 million in funding for Improved aircraft ground movement management including stormwater improvements; installation of a re-fuelling apron; taxi lane for general aviation to taxiway and apron flood lighting is ensuring aviation in the region continues to grow and prosper.
Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the airport's security and infrastructure enhancements will support the city's future expansion.
"We have invested millions of dollars in upgrades at Armidale Regional Airport and now the region is reaping the rewards of increased economic activity," Mr Joyce said.
"It is complemented by delivery of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) in Armidale and my push for the city's continued development as a centre for agricultural excellence.
"These additional works will further help secure Armidale's place as a premier regional airport, getting passengers and freight to wherever they're going, safely and more efficiently."
