Regional airports across Australia are facing ever-increasing pressures associated with ensuring long-term financial sustainability and the delivery of cost-effective and efficient aerodrome operations to meet the needs of local communities.

Aviation Projects was engaged by the Fraser Coast Regional Council to undertake a high-level review of the operations at Hervey Bay Airport and Maryborough Airport to determine if the current operating model is appropriate for the medium term, or whether Council should consider alternative operational management options for the two airports. The study also included a high-level financial analysis and identification of new income generating opportunities.

Hervey Bay Airport is the region’s main commercial airport (approx. 200,000 pax pa) with air transport operations provided by QantasLink (Brisbane), Jetstar (Sydney and Melbourne) and Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort (Lady Elliot Island).

Maryborough Airport is a general aviation airport that caters for local and itinerant general aviation aircraft activities, including private aero club members, along with operations undertaken by aeromedical service providers and freight operators.

The project involved:

  • Facilitating a project inception meeting with Council / Airport staff to confirm the project objectives, scope and key milestone dates
  • Reviewing the current operational situation and strategic and operational context including a site visit to both airports
  • Undertaking an operational assessment and financial analysis of the airports, including reviewing airport financials, fees and charges, the current operating model and possible alternatives, and new income generating and land-use opportunities
  • Preparing a draft Feasibility Study report for Council review; and final Feasibility Study report for acceptance.

The study made a number of recommendations regarding the existing airport operations, business and financial management and potential future governance arrangements for Council’s consideration.

To find out more about our airport operations, planning and development capability, contact us.

Fraser Coast Airports Operational Feasibility Study