Australian Aviation

In this week’s Australian Aviation Podcast, as Newcastle Airport nears completion on its ambitious international terminal redevelopment, Adam and Jake look at what it might do for commercial aviation on the east coast.

The runway, which according to WSI will be able to serve 10 million passengers per year at its opening in 2026, is rated for up to Code F aircraft including the 747-8 and A380. It has been under construction since bulk earthworks contracts were awarded in 2019.

Parts from the retired Australian Defence Force helicopters were reportedly used in the currently in-service Royal New Zealand Air Force helicopters without grounding the fleet.

The private equity firm is looking to raise $685 million in the IPO, which will reduce its holding in the airline to 40 per cent, as reported in the Australian Financial Review. Brokers are selling 30 per cent of stock to new investors, with Qatar Airways to retain 23 per cent and management 7.8 per cent.

The flights, which will operate twice per week on A320/21neo aircraft, will run from 27 October 2025 to 27 March 2026, for a total of around 15,000 seats over the season. It will be the only non-stop connection between Adelaide and New Zealand’s South Island.

The airport has joined Adelaide, Brisbane, Parafield, and Sydney Airports at Level 4 under ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation scheme, with Newcastle the only Australian airport to rank higher.