Perth’s new runway project takes-off

Perth Airport has appointed joint venture partners BMD Group and CPB Contractors (Skyway) as contractors to construct a major component of its new runway project, representing a significant step forward for Western Australia’s aviation sector. 

The new runway will be 3,000m long, 45m wide and the works package includes:

• Demolition of existing buildings and pavements on the site, including Grogan Road
• Diversion of existing utilities and storm water drains
• Ground preparation and earthworks including the placement of more than one million cubic metres of fill material
• Perimeter security fencing, security systems, and access gates
• Airfield perimeter, emergency, and facility access roads
• Airfield pavements – runway, taxiway, shoulder, and jet blast areas
• Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL), Movement Area Guidance Signs (MAGS), and pavement marking
• LV and communications systems and Electrical Equipment Rooms
• Airfield drainage and landscaping.

It is expected the works will take approximately three years to complete. 

Perth Airport CEO Jason Waters said that the appointment is one of the most significant contracts entered into by Perth Airport to date, as it embarks on delivery of its multi-billion-dollar investment in new aviation infrastructure projects. “The new runway is the most important piece of aviation infrastructure being built in Western Australia as it will underpin the future operations of the airport by creating more capacity for our airline partners. It will boost tourism, support businesses, create jobs, and strengthen our connection to global markets. We forecast that by 2046, we will be facilitating 30 million passengers, generating 75,400 jobs, and contributing $17billion to the State’s economy annually."

“The new runway will provide further operational flexibility for our aviation sector and will support Western Australia’s dynamic economy and provide opportunities for our airline partners to grow their business at Perth Airport. A new runway means new flight paths, and we remain committed to continue to talk to the community so they can become better informed on the operations of the New Runway. Airservices Australia, with support from our team, will be working to finalise the flight paths as construction progresses. Since approval in 2020, Perth Airport has undertaken detailed design of the runway to minimise impacts on the environment. Perth Airport is committed to ensuring the Munday Swamp heritage site remains protected and accessible to current and future generations of Whadjuk Noongar people."

“Our focus is always on minimising the impact to the environment and heritage, while providing Western Australia an efficient and safe aviation industry, so I am proud that our Team has further reduced the impact of the project site.  “With this project taking-off, Perth Airport is now well underway with the largest private investment in infrastructure in Perth’s history which will be completed within the next decade. “The program includes a new parallel runway, new terminal facilities, two multi-storey carparks with associated roadworks, an upgrade of Terminal 2, and the airport’s first hotel. “This will deliver on the long-held vision for One Airport which will create a better travel experience for passengers, greater efficiency for airlines, and major economic benefits for Western Australia.”

CPB Contractors Managing Director Jason Spears said: “CPB Contractors is a well-established leader in Aviation infrastructure with more than 10 major works packages delivered in as many years. Working with Perth Airport and our partners at BMD, our team looks forward to creating a positive legacy for industry with our intelligent earthworks approach, unmatched safety record and award-winning paving and asphalt solutions.”

BMD Chief Executive Officer Scott Power said: “BMD is an industry leader in aviation infrastructure, experienced in executing complex projects to the highest standard, maintaining safe and seamless operations. Together with Perth Airport and CPB Contractors, we’re building on our decade long relationships in Western Australia to create enduring infrastructure that will bolster local economies, create jobs and supply chain opportunities, and leave a legacy of resilience and community value.”