Aberdeen Airport launches 30-year master plan envisaging GBP100m capital investment
UK's Aberdeen Airport launched (02-Apr-2012) its draft master plan, outlining plans to develop the airport over the next 30 years. Highlights include a GBP100 million capital investment plan over the next two decades, major refurbishment of the terminal building, space for further runway expansion and a forecast 40% rise in passenger numbers by 2040. The main proposals include:
- Expansion of the airport's international arrivals area and departure lounge;
- Upgrades to the security search area and additional domestic and international baggage reclaim capacity;
- Remodelling the airport's food court and retail facilities, and a new car rental building;
- A helicopter taxiway and runway upgrade, additional aircraft stands and an upgrade of the southern taxiway.
Meanwhile, the main runway will be resurfaced in 2024. Land will also be safeguarded to allow for additional runway extensions at both ends of the main runway, assuming forecast growth is achieved and there is a commercial imperative for further expansion. The new runway extension would generate an additional 205,000 passengers by 2015, contribute GBP20.3 million for the local economy by 2015 and lead to as many as 30,000 extra visitors to the region p/a, spending up to GBP6.4 million annually.
The airport noted "updated forecasts produced by BAA show a growing demand for air services to and from Aberdeen over the long term, with passenger numbers expected to reach four million by 2020 and more than five million by 2040. Around 1100 jobs could be created as a result of future development". Airport MD Derek Provan said: "This investment will ensure that Aberdeen Airport is well placed to grow for the future and continues to play its part in driving the region's economic development. Aberdeen Airport handled 3.1 million passengers, over 97,000 passenger flights and around 6200 tonnes of freight in 2011. The airport has approximately 20 airlines operating to around 40 destinations with a high percentage of business use (56%) supporting the north east economy. [more - original PR]