Busselton Margaret River Airport master plan update

The soaring success of the Jetstar Melbourne service and significant growth in FIFO flights from the Busselton Margaret River Airport has prompted a review of the local authority-run facility’s master plan.

Big increases in passenger numbers over the past few years has led to the shire looking at upgrades including a new terminal. Passenger numbers grew 11 per cent between July 1, 2023 and January 31, 2024 compared to the same period in 2022-2023.

The updated master plan was adopted by the council last month as a guide for future planning and development of the airport with a planning horizon of 20 years to 2043.

Busselton mayor Phill Cronin said some of the facilities and activities identified in the BMRA Masterplan would be developed in the near term, whereas some will take several years to justify and might be implemented in 10 to 15 years from now.

“Both State and Federal Government, along with the city, recognise the strategic importance of the BMRA development and we are continuing to work together to develop and support the opportunities that the BMRA provides for the region,” Mr Cronin said.

The plan is also being used to support the writing of a business case in partnership with the South West Development Commission.

The business case will focus on the long-term demand and asset sustainability of the airport, providing economic, social and industry analysis as well as a funding strategy for any future upgrades, including a possible new terminal.

This comes as various projects including the apron for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, a new taxi rank in front of the arrivals hall, and runway compliance works have just been completed, and as the facility prepares to welcome additional Jetstar services later this year.

Following on from the success of the Melbourne flights, Jetstar has announced they will be starting flights to Sydney on March 25.