Australian Airports Association (AAA) CEO Simon Westaway says the Federal Government needs to commit to spending $50 million per year on regional and remote airports in order to meet industry challenges.
Westaway made the call last week after a series of AAA divisional meetings showed that several council-run regional airports were operating at a loss.
Westaway also reiterated a previous policy of introducing a Mid-size airport grant scheme to parallel the Regional Airports Program (RAP) and the Remote Airstrips Upgrade Program (RAUP).
“Our Division Meetings have provided us with valuable insights from our airport members nationwide, highlighting the challenges they face,” Simon Westaway.
“In particular, we've heard that many regional airports need improved sustainable funding to ensure their infrastructure is up to scratch and that all of Australia stays connected.
“Many of these local airports are council-run and often operate at a loss, so to plan for the future they need stronger funding commitments.
“According to Federal Government data, 15% of domestic passengers travel through regional airports. Their importance to the nation's aviation network cannot be overstated.
“As part of our Federal Election asks, the AAA would like to see an ongoing pledge of $50 million a year for the Regional Airports and Remote Airstrip Upgrade Programs to help close the infrastructure gap in our smaller gateways across Australia.
“These airports and aerodromes are vital lifelines for many communities, connecting residents to essential services, family, friends, and tourism opportunities."
In the 2024-25 federal budget, the ALP government extended the RAP with an additional $40 million in funding over three years. The RAUP, which began in 2009, was also extended with $50 million over three years.
However, the AAA believes that more is needed, and called once again for a third grant program for mid-sized airports
“Without adequate investment, outdated and strained airport infrastructure will impede economic growth and hinder the travel industry," Westaway said.
“With the ongoing uncertainty around Rex Airlines, support for the sustainable continuation of regional airlines is also crucial as they are the lifeline for access to healthcare, education, business, and social connections.
“Australia’s mid-sized airports also need to be kept in the funding picture and often miss out on government grants simply due to their size.
“These airfields should be covered by a federal $25 million Mid-Sized Airport Program to ensure they can better plan and co-participate in essential safety upgrades."
In their submission to the 2024 Federal Budget, the AAA noted that "mid-sized" airports should include both key regional and metro GA airports.
“Airports bridge the gap between cities and regional areas, enhancing mobility, tourism, and economic prosperity," Westaway said.
"Investing in our regional airports ensures they remain vital lifelines for our communities."