Shellharbour City Council's draft Shellharbour Airport Master Plan is now on public exhibition.
The draft Master Plan aims to provide an assessment of the Airport's infrastructure and consider what may be required in the future to establish a vibrant business hub that contributes to the regional economic development, tourism and employment.
Shellharbour City Council Mayor Chris Homer said airports formed an integral part of the Australian economy and were critical in supporting communities and enhancing the city's economic performance.
"Access to local aviation services has a positive boost for our city's local trade and tourism to grow and provides improved economic outcomes for the entire community," Mayor Homer said.
"Shellharbour Airport is estimated to service Australia's ninth largest catchment area, however in terms of airport traffic, Shellharbour Airport ranks 75th. This discrepancy may offer significant opportunities for our community and visitors.
"There have been many complexities worked through in the development of the draft Airport Master Plan, and now we are seeking wider community feedback on it."
Last night, Councillors voted unanimously to release the draft Airport Master Plan for public exhibition and seek feedback from stakeholders and the community.
The draft Master Plan considers three potential scenarios:
Scenario 1: Business As Usual
Scenario 2: Introduction of Airport Security - enabling the introduction of medium sized domestic aircraft capable of transferring up to approximately 135 passengers
Scenario 3: Introduction of Affordable Travel Options - enabling the introduction of large sized domestic aircraft capable of transferring 150+ passengers.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the Shellharbour Airport has exciting potential to have an expanded airport capable of having larger aircraft and more frequent flights would give a real boost to the region - and be an attractor to investment and tourism into the area.
"The vision for Shellharbour Airport is to provide an economic uplift by bringing business and commercial development and additional tourists to the city," Mayor Homer said.
"Now is the time to give your feedback as once the Master Plan is endorsed, it will guide the evolution of the airport for generations to come."
The draft Masterplan is on exhibition until 28 March, 2024.
