Hamilton International Airport (HIA) has secured a approval to extend its runway to almost 3000m, as it looks to become a “low cost secondary airport gateway” to New Zealand in the near future.
The runway extension, which was approved by Waipa District Council in May, is in line with HIA’s master plan out to 2030. Further to the runway extension, HIA will also be able to extend taxiways and the aircraft apron, as well as make associated air noise boundaries changes.
“These are long term goals and this is not going to happen tomorrow,” HIA CEO Chris Doak said. “There is still significant activity required to complete the business case and capital funding models. Approvals will allow the airport to begin to identify suitable partners to help make this project successful.”