Community
11 September, 2024
Top award for airport – again
CAIRNS Airport has been crowned airport of the year at the Australian Aviation Awards for the second year in a row.
The team’s flood recovery efforts in December 2023 were a major contributor, along with a series of other key community initiatives and infrastructure developments over the last 12 months. Cairns Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said it was incredible to take home airport of the year for a second year in a row.
“I’m very proud of the team at Cairns Airport for their commitment to the region and industry,” he said.
“This dedication is what enabled Cairns Airport to reopen our aerodrome so rapidly after last year’s unprecedented flooding. Our team displayed mammoth determination and resilience, and in doing so produced an exceptional outcome for our community and stakeholders.
“We were able to support emergency services during the critical recovery time and connect customers with loved ones before the festive season.”
Judges also factored in:
The airport’s $55 million international terminal redevelopment to improve customer comfort and access
The start of the Eastern Aviation Precinct for local operators and industries
Growth in freight opportunities, including the significant cargo capacity of Singapore Airlines’ A350 and the opening of the Regional Trade Distribution Centre (RTDC)
The landmark CleanCo Queensland agreement, enabling carbon-neutral operations by 2025
Key partnerships, including sponsorship of Ironman Asia-Pacific Championship Cairns
Employment and training initiatives, including support for licenced aircraft maintenance engineers (LAME) cadetship and the annual careers day.
Mr Barker said the airport’s company purpose was to sustainably grow its aviation-related business to support the growth of the community.
“Community lies at the heart of everything we do and we are motivated by this commitment every day,” he said.
