Airport Boom Continues in Australia

All over the world, airports are recognising that passenger demand is often increasing faster than predicted. The exponential increase in airport expansion projects is proof that aviation authorities are trying to plan for future passenger throughput before capacity problems arise. The same can be said Down Under, with several airport projects in Australia being included on the national Infrastructure Priority List. Here are some of the upcoming airport expansion projects in Australia, and what opportunities they offer for airport construction jobs.

In Progress: Western Sydney Airport Construction Project

Last year, construction began on the new Western Sydney Airport. Recognising that Sydney is Australia’s primary aviation gateway, authorities decided to construct the new airport when forecast growth outstripped what the existing Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport could handle. Initially, the new airport will feature a single runway and cater to an expected 10 million passengers per annum (mppa). 

While the airport is scheduled to open in 2026, the project is phased with future developments already planned as demand grows. So, not only will Western Sydney Airport be looking for baggage handling system engineers, electrical engineers, project managers and aviation construction managers in the near future, there is the potential for work to be ongoing for some time as the development continues. In addition, related works such as highway improvements and other transportation projects are also highlighted in the Australian Infrastructure Priority List, driving demand for highway engineers, rail systems engineers, and commercial managers over the coming years. Western Sydney Airport promises to be one of the landmark aviation construction projects in the country.

On the Cusp: A New Runway at Perth Airport

A new proposed second runway at Perth Airport is coming to the end of its consultation period, with approval expected to be granted before the end of 2019. Besides the new runway infrastructure, aircraft landing and navigation systems, ground lighting, guidance systems, and drainage realignment will also need to be installed or constructed. While detailed design is fairly progressed, construction is likely to commence shortly after approval is granted and is expected to take between 4–5 years. Expect to see demand rise for aviation construction managers, as well as electrical engineers, airfield pavement engineers, project managers, and commercial directors with aviation experience in the Perth area. 

One to Watch: Melbourne’s Third Runway

Melbourne Airport is currently undergoing consultation regarding the installation of a third runway. While still in the early stages, the detailed design is expected to commence by the end of the year. If you are looking for aviation design jobs, now is the time to register your interest for this exciting airport expansion project. When detailed design is complete and approval is granted, construction is expected to commence as early as 2021, making this airport expansion project one to watch for airport construction jobs in Melbourne. 

Aviation Construction Jobs in Australia

Wherever you want to be based in Australia, one thing is certain: there is an airport construction job available now and for the coming few years. And if Australia doesn’t float your boat, there are aviation construction projects at London Heathrow, Hong Kong International, or even Hamilton International in Canada. Get in touch with us to discuss where you want to work and we’ll help make it happen. Alternatively, set up our job alerts service to stay updated with our latest aviation vacancies, or send us your CV. 

About the Author

Richard Poulter
Construction Recruitment Director, Hong Kong
I am responsible for the recruitment business in Hong Kong, Asia, and the Middle East. I was a civil engineer and project manager for 15 years before becoming a construction industry recruitment consultant in 2004. I am based in the Hong Kong office and specialise in placing professionals in engineering, project management, planning, HSEQ and risk.
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Email: richard@maximrecruitment.com