Queenstown Airport is in the final stages of planning a major programme of airfield works to improve operational efficiency, safety, resilience, and sustainability.
This will include construction of a Code C heavy taxiway, and remediation and resurfacing of the airport’s main runway. Together, the projects represent an investment of about $60 million in critical infrastructure.
Chief Executive Shane O’Hare said the new taxiway would be constructed parallel to the main runway and would enable more efficient management of aircraft movements, reducing congestion on the airfield.
“This is about strengthening the core of our airport, and enhancing safety,” Mr O’Hare said.
Without a heavy taxiway, aircraft used for scheduled flights to and from Queenstown Airport are required to backtrack along the main runway after arriving and before departure.
“The new taxiway will allow aircraft to move between the apron and runway more efficiently, improving on‑time performance and operational resilience, particularly during peak periods or disruption,” Mr O’Hare said.
“It will also reduce ground delays and the length of time pilots are asked to fly a holding pattern while waiting to land, which will enhance safety and lower fuel consumption.”
This project will not change the length of the runway or enable the introduction of larger aircraft.
Work on the runway is due as part of the airport’s regular asset maintenance programme. It will address areas of wear and improve surface performance and resilience, ensuring the runway continues to meet strict safety and regulatory standards. The last runway overlay was completed in 2016.
“Queenstown Airport is a lifeline utility of regional and national importance,” Mr O’Hare said. “Investing in resilient, well‑designed infrastructure is essential to maintaining safe operations, both now and into the future.”
Queenstown Airport Project Manager Greg Emms said a pre-construction services agreement (PCSA) had been signed with major infrastructure contractor Fulton Hogan, which was helping designer AECOM with the final design and pricing stage.
“This project will be carefully staged to allow construction to progress while the airport remains open and operating.”
Fulton Hogan Project Director Edward Husband said undertaking airfield works at an operating airport would require meticulous planning, specialist expertise, and close collaboration.
“Fulton Hogan has extensive experience delivering complex airfield projects across New Zealand and Australia, and we’re proud to be partnering with Queenstown Airport on infrastructure that will improve efficiency, strengthen resilience, and support safe, reliable operations for years to come.”
Image: Queenstown Airport Project Manager Greg Emms, left, with Fulton Hogan Project Director Edward Husband.