AIA offers Defence role

By Phil Boeyen, ShareChat Business News Editor

Wednesday 9th May 2001

Auckland International Airport (NZSE: AIA) is touting its potential as an air force base in light of possible increased competition in the region.

As a result of a defence review the Government plans to disband the country's Air Combat Force, raising the possibility that Whenuapai airforce base in Auckland could have a future use for civilian services.

However Auckland International Airport has been quick to point out that it could accommodate all current and future Royal NZ Air Force requirements.

MD John Goulter says a relocation of the Air Force to Auckland International Airport would represent a more efficient use of the country's resources with all the required facilities already in place.

"A relocation would enable the Government to divest itself of prime real estate at Whenuapai and Hobsonville and at the same time simplify and improve safety within Auckland's air space.

"Noise would not be an issue as fighter aircraft are not involved."

Mr Goulter says the airport has a number of suitable areas at Mangere that could accommodate hangers and maintenance bases and room to build residential housing for staff.

"The development of such facilities could be undertaken by the company and in turn leased to the Air Force on a long-term basis.

"This, coupled with the resale value of the Whenuapai land, must have a real attraction to Government."

Mr Goulter claims the concept of using Whenuapai as a freight facility is unlikely as 80% of all cargo is already carried in scheduled passenger aircraft.

He has also cited international examples of combined use airports, citing Canberra, Newcastle and Honolulu airports where both air force and civilian aircraft operate from the same facilities.

Comments from our readers

No comments yet