The Newcastle Airport was officially launched in April 2019, but it quickly became a white elephant with little functionality. However, extensive development is now underway at the Newcastle Airport, with the Newcastle Municipality committed to transforming the facility.
Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Unit noted that in a bold move to ensure Newcastle’s significance as one of the economic hubs of KZN, the Newcastle Municipality is proud to announce the launch of infrastructure projects aimed at upgrading the Newcastle Airport.
“This visionary project will revolutionise the aviation landscape, thus enabling enhanced safety, efficiency, and commercial viability,” explained the Communications Unit.
As previously reported, the resurfacing of the Airport Runway was currently underway. As stated by the municipality, this will prolong the lifespan of the runway by resealing the surface with a thick layer of asphalt. To read more about the project which officially began on Friday, 12 July 2024, click here.
Looking ahead, here are further developments destined for the airport:
- Replacement of the Runway Ground Lights: Phase I of this project seeks to replace the non-functional ground lights at the airside, inclusive of the taxiway lights and PAPI lights. Phase II will entail upgrades in line with the categorisation requirements of a CAT II Airport.
- Air Traffic Control Tower: The project is earmarked for implementation during the 2024/2025 financial year to ensure that the airport provides a safe environment that enables passenger flights to come to the airport.
- Repurposing of the Hangar: This will mainly involve retrofitting the hangar with the required equipment to enable the provision of emergency fire-fighting services in relation to airport emergencies.
- Air Traffic Navigation System: This project will involve the licensing of the software used for air traffic control. The software will be housed at the air traffic control tower.
Additional projects in the pipeline for the airport will be implemented in phases, depending on the availability of funds, and will include the following:
- Refurbishments to the refuelling system.
- Development of operating manuals.
- Advancement of the Framework for the Transit-Oriented Development Node.
According to the Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Unit, these upgrades will cement Newcastle Airport’s position as a hub of economic growth, commercial viability, and aviation excellence.
Furthermore, Newcastle Mayor, Cllr Xolani Dube, said, “The Municipality’s commitment to progress and development remains unwavering, and we are confident that these enhancements will drive economic activity and growth in the region. This initiative demonstrates our dedication to progress, development, and community betterment. Newcastle Airport is poised to become a shining example of effective governance, visionary leadership, and collaborative stakeholder engagement.”
As the Newcastle Municipality focuses on altering the aviation landscape in Newcastle, what are your thoughts on the above?
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