Construction of Melbourne Airport’s third runway is about to pass a new milestone with early construction works about to begin and community consultation over noise mitigation already underway.
The 12 month preliminary works program which is expected to start this month involves upgrading a nearby road to improve flow and safety for vehicles using the airport ahead of the main runway construction works scheduled for next year.
Airport representatives have started talking to people likely to be affected by noise from aircraft using the new runway, including those using schools and public buildings, about potential upgrades roof insulation, double-glazed windows and improved seals.
The 3,000-metre-long runway will be built parallel and 1.3 kilometres west of the north-south runway, along with new taxiways and other enabling infrastructure, at a cost of about A$3 billion (US$1.95 billion).
Melbourne Airport’s Executive Director for the third runway project Peter Lellyett said the works and consultation marked an important step forward in construction of the runway, which is scheduled to open in 2031.
“The third runway is critical to keep Victoria connected, ensuring we can meet future demand for travel and support the state’s economy,” Lellyett said in a media release.
“We’re committed to working closely with our local communities to manage the impacts of the project, particularly when it comes to aircraft noise.”
The parallel runway system will significantly increase Melbourne Airport’s capacity by allowing for simultaneous take-offs and landings, which will help reduce delays and give existing airlines and new entrants the infrastructure they need to grow.
Australia’s second busiest airport after Sydney, Melbourne is finalising the details of a $4 billion international terminal expansion as passenger numbers soar to record levels and is midway through a $500 million project to upgrade the international baggage system.
Melbourne Airport is owned by Australia Pacific Airports Corporation (APAC), which also owns Launceston Airport, and is in turn owned by Dexus (27.32%), IFM Investors (25.17%), Future Fund (20.34%), SAS Trustee Corporation (18.47%) and Utilities of Australia/(8.70%).
