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$5.1 million airstrip upgrade improves aircraft operations
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Made possible by State Government’s Royalties for Regions program
The East Kimberley Regional Airport (Kununurra Airport) runway upgrade has been completed, improving safety and functionality for aircraft operations at the airport.
Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the Kununurra runway, which was built in the 1960’s, had shown signs of deterioration and pavement deformities.
“A runway evaluation study revealed an upgrade was needed to strengthen the airstrip to better accommodate current and future aircraft traffic,” Mr Nalder said.
The project received $2.55 million from the 2013-15 round of Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS) grants, made possible by the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program. The Shire of Wyndham/East Kimberley funded the remaining 50 per cent of the project.
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said improved airport infrastructure played a vital role in supporting regional growth.
“This upgrade will provide greater opportunities for industry, tourism and economic development in regional Western Australia,” Mr Redman said.
“Royalties for Regions is making a difference with its support of projects such as this to ensure the sustainability of our regional communities.”
From 2008-15, 184 projects have received RADS funding totalling $31.5 million, which has helped improve air services, safety and infrastructure at regional airports across WA.
Fact File
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The State Government provides financial assistance to regional airports through the RADS grant program to improve regional air services and safety to WA airport owners and leaseholders
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The Government’s RADS grant program is delivered by the Department of Transport
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The 2015-17 grant recipients were announced in March 2015
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The 2017-19 RADS grants round will open for applications later this year
