February 28, 2017

Multi-million dollar investment will enhance customer experience at Launceston Airport

Launceston Airport continues to invest in terminal improvements with a $2m reconfiguration project due to commence in mid-March. The project builds on the recent transformation and expansion of the airport’s shopping and dining precinct. The aim is to improve passenger comfort by providing travellers with the opportunity to rest, relax and enjoy the new airport dining options and retail facilities right up until their flight is due to board. The improvements facilitate a faster boarding process for the airlines, allowing for more punctual aircraft departures.

When the alterations are completed, all passengers will pass through a completely re-orientated security screening facility directly after checking-in for their flight. The changes will help to further improve flows at the passenger screening point, and will build on the recent installation of a second x-ray, introduced to support screening activities during forecast peak periods.

Enhanced flight information displays and signage, new passenger amenities, additional seating and power charging points are all planned as part of the upgrade.

A number of changes to the security-controlled boundary will occur, including the introduction of a new automated CCTV-controlled security exit. Friends and family saying farewell or meeting arriving passengers will still be able to enjoy access to the shopping and dining facilities and arrival/departure gate lounges beyond security screening.

Planning and preparation for the works has been underway for over 18 months, with construction due to commence in March. The works have been carefully scheduled to occur after the peak summer period and to ensure safe and secure operations are maintained throughout. Although there will be some temporary changes to pedestrian routes and wayfinding during the construction period, works have been planned to minimise the overall impact on travellers. Local Tasmanian construction firm, VOS Construction, has been awarded the contract for the building works.

Quotes attributable to Paul Hodgen, General Manager, Launceston Airport:

“We’re proud to be continuing the redevelopment of the terminal at Launceston Airport and to receive industry recognition for our recent work.” said Mr Hodgen. “The upcoming changes will further improve our award-winning customer experience. Our focus is ensuring every visitor to our airport can take full advantage of our upgraded facilities, whether that’s for travellers awaiting departure directly, or for those visitors saying farewell or welcoming a traveller through the airport.”

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Notes to editors:

In June 2016 the airport unveiled the final phase of a $3.5m terminal transformation project, which included a 630-square metre expansion of the terminal featuring a total transformation of the airport dining and retail facilities. As part of this project, Launceston Airport introduced free Wi-Fi for passengers and visitors to the terminal.

Launceston Airport was recognised as the “Major Airport of the Year” in the Australian Airports Association 2016 national airport industry awards, for the second consecutive year.

Launceston Airport also received the “Innovation and Excellence Award – Commercial” in the Australian Airports Association 2016 national airport industry awards, for the airport retail transformation project.

For further information contact: Launceston Airport - (03) 6391 6222

Australia Pacific Airports (Launceston) acknowledges the First Nations people and Traditional Owners of Tasmania including the Land that Launceston Airport operates on. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all other First Nations People.