There has been a positive trend of increasing Regional Express passenger numbers at Narrandera-Leeton Airport since the beginning of 2022.

Narrandera Shire Council’s General Manager George Cowan advised that positive comments continue to be received from Regional Express that the Sydney – Narrandera/Leeton – Griffith route was one of their most profitable routes flown.

Mr Cowan presented a preliminary capital works program based on RPT services for information at Tuesday’s Council meeting.

The program was subject to change with ongoing legislative compliance requirements and or opportunities for further grant funding improvements.

Preliminary cost estimates based on current cost value will be tabled at the next meeting.

• 2023/24 Terminal painting, blinds, and associated improvements.
• 2024/25 Runway 14/32, taxiway, and apron re-marking.
• 2025/26 Develop and construct additional carpark spaces.
• 2026/27 Reseal existing carpark.
• 2027/28 Renew current security CCTV.
• 2028/29 Remedial works for future runway, taxiway, apron reseal.
• 2029/30 14/32 Runway, taxiway and apron reseal.

“Timing of these works may vary based on the condition of the asset at the time, for example either bought forward and or extended out a year/s,” Mr Cowan said.

“Council also continues to pursue grant opportunities where suitable. Whilst it is unknown at this stage whether a future Regional Airports Round 3 grant program will be offered the following projects are being considered for future grant applications.

• Widening of existing Knight Drive access road and improved ingress, egress to the carpark including drainage and removal of the grassed area centre circle.
• Future suitability and planning of the terminal building to meet current and future trends along with security compliance if screening was introduced to lower tiered airports.
• Review and update of the Narrandera – Leeton Airport Operational Plan most recent review (2011).
• Review and adequacy of existing perimeter levee bank height.
• Renewal of existing flood gates.

Council was also advised of an incident at the terminal on the evening, early morning of October 18-19 2022 where a person set alight two garbage bins. RFS, NSW Fire and Rescue, Ambulance and Police attended the incident.

An initial site clean-up was undertaken and repairs to the affected area scheduled.

The airport committee was advised that an initial enquiry had been received from the Australian Aerobatic Club (AAC) regarding the potential for the airport to host an event in coming years

Leeton Shire Councillor Paul Smith advised of a need to start planning for a practical airfield emergency exercise targeted for early 2023.

This article appeared in the Narrandera Argus, 17 November 2022.