New runway lights for Shark Bay Airport

20/8/03
An important upgrade for Shark Bay airport has been funded by the State Government.
The Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS) will provide $70,000 to assist in the cost of installing runway lights and a standby generator at Shark Bay Airport.
The scheme funds up to 50 per cent of the cost of projects that either develop airport infrastructure or enhance airport planning in regional areas.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the runway lights were long overdue.
"The airport owners have lobbied for years to get lights installed and now that Western Power has reached agreement with them on a reliable supply of electricity, the project can move ahead," Ms MacTiernan said.
"Since the relocation of Shark Bay Airport to its present position some years ago, vital night-time Royal Flying Doctor Service operations have only been possible using a portable emergency flare path.
"An emergency flare path takes an hour or so to lay, whereas these new lights will be activated by the pilot of an approaching aeroplane.
"The lights could also herald the introduction of regular tourism flights to Shark Bay.
"While regional airlines are busy during the day, many of their aircraft are readily available at night.
"This is a great opportunity to open up the Shark Bay/ Monkey Mia district to a much wider market."
Under the scheme, a total of 36 airports across the State will receive funding for a variety of works.
"The scheme was due to end, but the Gallop Government has extended it for an additional year; applications for 2004-05 will open early next year," Ms MacTiernan said.
"To be eligible, airports must be open to the public and unable to fund the improvements from their own income and resources.
"These can be airports owned by local governments, Government agencies, community organisations or private businesses."
The total value of RADS projects in 2003-04 is $5.62million, of which the State Government will contribute $2million.

RADS has provided more than $16million in financial assistance to over 70 regional airports since the scheme commenced in 1994.
Minister's office: 9213 6400