Cairns Airport has been redeveloped and opened ahead of schedule and was opened by Deputy Premier Paul Lucas today on the back of the launch of Tourism Queensland’s new international brand, ‘Queensland, Where Australia Shines’.
Cairns Airport’s redevelopment is expected to underpin the regions $1.3 billion tourism industry, with the North Queensland region’s economy highly dependent on the support of its airline partners.
“A strong airport means strong tourism and the Cairns Airport continues to play a crucial role in the Tropical North’s future growth,” Mr Lucas said.
“Cairns is Australia’s second busiest regional airport after Coolangatta on the Gold Coast, and it’s estimated that the airport generates annually around $2 billion for the regional economy.
“Around 30,000 jobs in the region are also dependent on the successful operation of Cairns Airport.
“The airport plays a key role in this, and the State Government continues to work in close partnership with Cairns Airport, Tourism Queensland and Tourism Tropical North Queensland to grow visitation.
Member for Cairns Desley Boyle said Cairns Airport Pty Ltd, owners of the Cairns Airport, were investing in the future of Tropical North Queensland.
“The Cairns Airport will also continue to play a vital role as Queensland’s gateway to Papua New Guinea and the Pacific – something of critical importance for trade in this region.
Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt also welcomed the opening of the redevelopment and said the State Government would continue to support local tourism.
“The State Government will of course continue working with Tourism Queensland and the region’s industry stakeholders to ensure the local tourism continues to receive the support it needs in the wake of the recent tough times,” Mr Pitt said.
