2018 – Early Preparations
Late 2018: Initial site clearing and leveling began, with 1.8 million cubic meters of earth moved to prepare for the runway and terminal construction. This was the first stage in transforming the site.
2019 – Large-Scale Earthworks
Early 2019: Large-scale earthworks commenced, with over 22 million cubic meters of earth moved, one of the largest earthmoving operations in Australia's history. This prepared the ground for the runway and main infrastructure.
Late 2019: Access roads and utility installations began. Foundation work for the terminal and support buildings was laid, ensuring power, water, and other essential utilities would be ready.
2020 – Runway Preparations and Civil Work
Early 2020: The shaping of the runway and taxiways began, alongside the continued development of essential infrastructure. Subsurface drainage systems and foundations for the terminal were a key focus during this stage.
Mid 2020: Surfacing of the runway progressed, and work on the taxiways moved ahead. Essential utility networks were expanded, preparing the site for future terminal operations.
2021 – Terminal Construction
Early 2021: Construction of the passenger terminal commenced, with the terminal's foundation and structural framework taking shape. Road networks around the site were further developed to support the growing project.
Late 2021: The terminals main structural frame was completed. Utility installation continued, providing the groundwork for air traffic systems, power, water, and telecommunications infrastructure.
2022 – Infrastructure Development
2022: The runway and taxiways neared completion, with surfacing and detailing underway. Internal works on utilities and preparations for the terminals complex systems (such as air traffic and baggage handling) continued.
2023 – Runway and Terminal Progress
Mid 2023: Runway surfacing and taxiway work neared completion. Work on the terminal accelerated, focusing on internal fit-outs and preparing for the installation of key systems.
Late 2023: The external structure of the terminal was largely completed, with a significant amount of utility installation and internal work progressing.
2024 – Terminal Roof Completion
June 2024: The terminal roof was completed, marking a critical milestone. This allowed internal work to accelerate, including the installation of lounges, retail areas, and departure spaces. Additionally, over 6,000 solar panels were installed on the terminal roof, providing sustainable energy for the airport’s operations.
Mid 2024: The airport was over 80% complete, with ongoing internal fit-outs, finalizing the terminal spaces, and continued work on the runway and taxiways.
Future Milestones
Late 2026: The airport is set to open with a single operational runway, handling domestic, international, and air cargo flights. It is expected to serve 5-10 million passengers annually in its initial phase.
2031 (Projected): Passenger capacity is expected to grow to 10 million annually. A second runway will likely be added to meet increasing demand
