Aviation Projects has provided assistance to the Wagner Group from the initial planning approval through to the construction and operation of Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport and continues to provide valuable ongoing advice and support.
Aviation Projects provided expert advice and guidance on a range of matters including the preparation of initial demand forecasts and scope of aircraft operations, concept layouts, concept airspace and aircraft flight paths and consideration of various other planning and operations matters. They have also provided advice on aeronautical infrastructure requirements and costs and operational advice on a variety of matters. Aviation Projects was able to assist with the introduction and ongoing operation of B747-800F aircraft by preparing a safety case that was approved by CASA.
Managing Director, Keith Tonkin, is thoroughly professional in all of his work and takes pride in providing a tailored solution that considers all aspects of a client’s strategic intent, including the short and long term implications of various recommended actions.
Aviation Projects has been integral to the success of our airport and continues to be a valued advisor to our business.
Specialist Consultant - Aviation Safeguarding
Background
With extensive experience in aviation, Kate brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in safety management systems, regulatory compliance, and strategic advisory. She has built a solid foundation in the complex landscape of aviation safety, regulatory frameworks, and emerging technologies, including unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) integration.
With a background in air traffic control, Kate has also served in Aviation Compliance, Policy and Safety roles across both air traffic management and commercial airline providers, as well as having acted as an Aviation Consultant to a variety of aviation organisations. Kate provides evidence-based analysis and advice on safety, risk, and compliance, and her strategic and operational mindset allows Kate to effectively navigate the "grey areas" of aviation regulation and deliver clear, actionable advice to stakeholders at all levels.
Kate’s experience working as an Air Safety Regulator with the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand involved having regulatory oversight of air traffic services, including emerging technology and UAS airspace integration challenges. Through this role Kate contributed to the development of safety and compliance frameworks, and policies, and was a member of a number of cross-government working groups influencing change.
Kate provided expert input to the international aviation system as the New Zealand member on both the ICAO Asia-Pacific Air Traffic Management Sub-Group and the ICAO UAS Advisory Group (UAS-AG).
Kate has a passion for collaborative work and enjoys facilitating discussions across diverse groups, from internal teams to global regulators. Her ability to synthesise information from multiple sources, identify risks, and formulate evidence-based solutions ensures that the projects she leads are both impactful and sustainable. With a proven track record of successfully managing complex projects, navigating regulatory challenges, and leading policy initiatives, Kate is a trusted advisor and a go-to resource within the aviation sector.
Strengths include:
- Safety Management Systems & Risk Management
Aviation Policy & Regulatory Compliance
Auditing & Compliance Advisory
Project Management & Stakeholder Engagement
Emerging Technologies & UAS Integration
International Relations & Regulatory Advocacy
Notable engagements:
- Panelist at Dubai Airshow 2023 “Integrating AAM operations in ATM and UTM”
Panelist at AUVSI Exponential Orlando 2022 “The Safety Target”
Panelist at ICAO RPAS Symposium Chengdu 2018 “Implementing Harmonised Regulations”
Qualifications
- Post-Graduate Certificate in Public Policy
Certificate Level 3 Regulatory Compliance (Core Knowledge)
Bachelor of Accounting
Diploma in Air Traffic Control, with Air Traffic Controller License
Prince 2 Project Management: Practitioner
Diploma of Financial Markets
