FREIGHT has been singled out as an economic driver in the Perth Airport Master Plan 2026 draft document.
The document was released to the public last week.
A new master plan is prepared every five years to provide the blueprint for the sustainable and responsible development of Perth Airport during the next 20 years and beyond.
The report notes the airport’s $6.6bn annual contribution to the economy of Western Australia and that it moves around 138,000 tonnes of freight a year.
Economic modellers believe the air freight volumes could rise to between 164,000 and 269,000 tonnes during the next two decades.
Perth Airport CEO Jason Waters says the Master Plan 2026 details the airport’s enormous potential for Western Australia with a forecast 30 million passengers per year by 2046.
“Perth Airport is already a major generator of jobs and economic growth in Western Australia,” Mr Waters said.
“When Perth Airport grows, the Western Australian economy grows.
“We have begun work on the largest private investment in infrastructure in Perth’s history which will be delivered over the course of this five-year plan.”
Mr Waters said the master plan would advance business and trade opportunities for WA and deliver new property development opportunities on the airport estate.
Some key features include:
Mr Waters said the Master Plan 2026 also details a range of commitments by the airport to ensure that its growth is responsible and sustainable.
“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and the Master Plan confirms our commitment to Net Zero by 2032 – aligning with the delivery of the major capital projects portfolio.
“Our Master Plan also details how we will work with Airservices Australia, all levels of government and the aviation industry to actively manage aircraft noise exposure and its effect on the surrounding community, while balancing the need for critical and safe air services.
“We want to speak with the community about our plans as it will change the face of Perth Airport.”
Perth Airport’s Master Plan 2026 forecasts that between FY25 and FY46:
annual passenger numbers will grow from 17.48 million to 30.8 million,
annual aircraft movements will increase from 160,800 to 222,800 movements, and
domestic and international air freight could grow from 138,000 tonnes to between 164,000 and 269,000 tonnes.