Mackay takes-off with airport expansion

Mackay Airport is spreading its wings with a $2.14 million upgrade to cope with soaring passenger numbers.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Paul Lucas and Member for Mackay, Tim Mulherin today officially opened an expansion of the airport’s ground-floor security departure lounge.

“A buoyant tourism sector , cheaper airfares and the mining boom have all contributed to a massive increase in people passing through Mackay Airport.

“In the past six years we’ve seen passenger numbers more than double – last year alone more than 656,300 people used the airport for business or pleasure,” Mr Lucas said.

“Mackay is a growing tourism destination and burgeoning economic centre.

“This year we’re expecting over 750,000 passengers.”

Mr Mulherin said the size of the Mackay Airport departure lounge had been more than doubled to accommodate the spectacular growth in air travel.

“We can now potentially seat 415 passengers with additional standing room.

“The expansion has included an upgrade of the passenger security screening area.

“It means airport staff can now move travellers through the terminal faster,” Mr Mulherin said.

“We’ve also improved the creature comforts with a new food kiosk and additional restrooms for passengers waiting to board flights.”

Mr Mulherin said the extension had given the Mackay Port Authority the opportunity to expand its office space and security operations with an upgraded fire and evacuation warning system.

“Mackay is a burgeoning city – in fact outside the southeast it is Queensland's fastest growing regional centre.”

“Every week there are 56 direct Brisbane flights into and out of Mackay, as well as four direct Sydney flights.

“Not to mention 31 regional – this is phenomenal for regional city.”

“This expansion ensures Mackay can meet the demand of passengers well into the future,” Mr Mulherin said.