Askume Sep 13 – Australia’s Melbourne Airport received long-awaited approval on Friday to build a third runway, with the federal government setting conditions to minimise the impact of aircraft noise on surrounding communities.
The additional runway is expected to boost Victoria’s economy by up to A$6 billion (US$4.04 billion) annually.
The country’s Transport Minister Catherine King said the new runway would allow the airport to benefit from growing demand in the city and provide better access for passengers.
“The needs of the local community are at the forefront of my mind as I consider this proposal,” King said.
As more people live under flight paths and more flights take off and land, noise problems at airports are becoming increasingly severe.
The airport would need to include a legally binding commitment to restore the length of the existing east-west runway to enhance noise sharing opportunities.
In addition, it should implement a new program for the communities most affected by aircraft noise and conduct health studies on the effects of noise.
Minister King said: “These conditions, along with the associated environmental requirements, mean we are balancing the development of the airport with the needs of the local community.”
Australia’s flag carrier Qantas (QAN.AX) did not respond to a Askume request for comment, while smaller rival Virgin Australia, owned by Bain Capital, declined to comment on a request for comment on how the move could affect its operations.
“Airlines are concerned that the existing infrastructure at Melbourne Airport is not currently being fully utilised or operating at optimal efficiency,” the Australia and New Zealand airline industry group said in an emailed response to Askume.
The agency said the third runway would be a “long-term” project and the airport would need to ensure all existing infrastructure operated at optimal capacity during the transition period.
(USD 1 = AUD 1.4868)
