Canberra Airport has received government sign off for its 2009 master plan, which foresees the introduction of international routes within the next five years.
"Investment in airport infrastructure is necessary to accommodate growth and support employment, and the master plan provides for a new terminal building and associated upgrades in airfield facilities," says Anthony Albanese, Minister for infrastructure, transport, regional development and local government.
The number of jobs at the airport should grow to 25,000 from 8,000 now over the next 20 years, he says.
He added, however, that his approval is "not an endorsement of Canberra Airport's ambition to become Sydney's second airport."
The plan foresees the introduction of international routes within five years to cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Auckland, and Wellington.
The plan also foresees an increase in the number of domestic routes over the next five years. This includes services to Darwin, Cairns, Townsville, and Sunshine Coast.
Canberra Airport is served by four airlines; Qantas Airways, Virgin Blue, Tiger Airways, and Brindabella Airlines.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
