A significant package of resurfacing works for the runways at RAAF Base Darwin and Darwin International Airport will begin this week and continue until late 2024.
The $200 million works program will help support military and civilian air traffic into the Northern Territory to at least 2040.
These essential works will ensure the integrity of runways and taxiways and the safety of aircraft and passengers.
Extensive efforts continue to be made to minimise disruption to airline schedules and the community.
The following schedule of works will occur in 2023:
Phase | Duration | Impact |
1 | 15 Aug 23 – 8 Oct 23 | Runway length reduced with no impact upon airline operations |
2 | 9 Oct 23 – 30 Nov 23 | Main runway closed daily from 0200 to 1130. Regional airline traffic to operate from secondary runway if required |
Runway works will cease over the wet season and recommence from 2 April 2024. An updated schedule of works for 2024 will be released in October 2023.
Some disruptions are unavoidable. The secondary cross runway at Darwin airport does not have lighting to support night flights and is neither long enough nor strong enough to support large airliners. As such, major airline traffic cannot be diverted to the cross runway.
Airlines have been provided the schedule of works to determine their own scheduling impacts. Travellers are encouraged to check with their airline carriers’ websites and schedules.
As well as being an important civilian airport, the runway at RAAF Base Darwin is vital military asset; it has supported Australian and multinational aircraft as part of peacekeeping efforts, as well as supporting casualty evacuations after the 2002 Bali bombings and relief efforts in Indonesia after the 2004 tsunami. More recently, in 2021, the base received repatriating Australians due to COVID-19 and assisted with the reception of evacuees from Afghanistan.
Quotes attributable to Director General Capital Facilities and Infrastructure,
Air Commodore Ron Tilley
“The works at Darwin airport will also support investment into the Northern Territory economy, costing approximately $200 million and with an average daily workforce of between 60-90 personnel.”
“The Darwin airport works are being sequenced to minimise the impact on tourism and the local community during peak travel periods, including the school holidays.”
“Defence thanks the Northern Territory community for their support and patience while these important works take place to support future airport operations.”
Quotes attributable to Chief Executive Officer, Airport Development Group Pty Ltd, Tony Edmondstone
“The method of work program is now finalised enabling airlines to review impacts and provide certainty to the travelling public.”
“Air connectivity is crucial for Territorians and these works are essential to support the safe and efficient operation of the airport for the next couple of decades.”
“Airport Development Group recognises the disruption that this project will cause, and will work with airlines to rearrange flight schedules to maintain connectivity for Territorians and visitors alike.”
