Auckland Airport today opened its biggest airport infrastructure project since 1966—in a move that is expected to improve its operational efficiencies, attract more air capacity, and ultimately lead to cheaper airfares.
The $465 million airfield expansion will provide parking for up to 11 narrowbody jets or six widebody planes and adds the equivalent of 23 rugby fields of new apron and taxiway space.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who attended the opening event today, said the project was a ‘fantastic achievement’, while AKL airport ceo Carrie Hurihanganui says the infrastructure will support New Zealand’s growth ambitions and keep the country’s gateway airport running efficiently. “Right now, New Zealand’s international connectivity is still recovering to reach and surpass 2019 levels, but we are optimistic for the future with long-term growth on the horizon.”
The new airfield had a ‘soft start’ on 14 Aug, and will be officially operational on 01 Oct. The expansionputs AKL in the position to accept increased capacity as key international airline partners take delivery of additional aircraft in 2026/27, it adds.
Speaking to Travel Today, Hurihanganui said this development would enable growth, and allow AKL to offer ‘more carriers, more options and more competition’. “For travellers that means more competitive airfares, more choices and destinations, and if we can have anything to do with it that’s our goal.” See AKL’s video about the new expansion HERE.
. . . Future
The airfield’s pavement has been built to handle the world’s biggest aircraft, and the project is a part of AKL’s $3.9 billion terminal integration program. The newly-opened airfield includes five Multiple Aircraft Ramp System stands with jet fuel connections, and these have been future-proofed with electricity connections, with one unserviced stand. AKL’s cargo precinct is directly connected to the expansion. AKL handles more than $26 billion in trade by 2032 this is expected to rise to more than $41 billion annually.
