$2million upgrade works ready for takeoff at Geraldton and Esperance airports

Community members, local businesses and passengers using Geraldton and Esperance regional airports will soon benefit from improved facilities and infrastructure after receiving more than $2million of State Government funding.

Community members, local businesses and passengers using Geraldton and Esperance regional airports will soon benefit from improved facilities and infrastructure after receiving more than $2million of State Government funding.

Transport Minister Simon O'Brien said he was pleased to be awarding just over $1.1million of Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS) funding to the City of Geraldton-Greenough and almost $990,000 to the Shire of Esperance.

"The funding will allow Geraldton Airport to commence a terminal upgrade, including the construction of a security check point facility, passenger and baggage screening equipment and a secure pre-boarding lounge within the Greenough Terminal," Mr O'Brien said.

"This will ensure Geraldton Airport meets the required Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) standards allowing jet aircraft to access the airport, providing a great opportunity for growth in the region.

"Esperance Airport will receive an upgrade and be resealed, with a view to accommodating jet operations in the future.

"To date, $27.8million of RADS funding has been awarded for regional airport infrastructure projects.

"The Esperance and Geraldton funding announced today is allocated through RADS; however, the Royalties for Regions program has allocated the funds to these worthwhile projects."

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said given the vast distances in WA, it was vital that aviation infrastructure was developed and maintained, allowing remote communities to remain connected.

"Regional airports provide a lifeline for not only business and tourism they also ensure the community has access to essential services like the Royal Flying Doctor," Mr Grylls said.

"I am sure that the City of Geraldton-Greenough and Shire of Esperance which will undertake and maintain the work at the airports will be eager to make a start and both projects are due for completion by the end of 2009."

Transport Minister's office - 9213 6400 Regional Development Minister's office  - 9213 7000