In 1973, the main runway was resealed to keep things running smoothly, and then in 1982, it was upgraded even further to meet Boeing 727 standards—helping the airport welcome bigger and better aircraft.
A big change came in 1988 when ownership of the airport was transferred to the Federal Airports Corporation, marking a new chapter in its story.
Our beloved Miss Flinders found a new home at the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, where she remained a cherished piece of local history until March 2020.
On May 29, 1998, Launceston Airport was privatised for $18.8 million, passing into the hands of the Australia Pacific Airports Corporation. With this change came a fresh new identity, proudly featuring the airport’s name alongside its iconic runway stripes.
That September, the Royal Flying Doctor Service hangar was completed and officially opened by Sir Guy Green, Governor of Tasmania from 1995 to 2003—a real milestone for the community.
And in 1999, the Launceston Airport Master Plan was shared with the public, paving the way for the airport’s future growth and continued service to Tasmania.