FAQ
Will the expanded pilot training facility result in holding patterns of Aircraft waiting to use the runway?
Training aircraft are subject to the same standard flight circuit procedures that apply to all aircraft prior to landing as determined by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
In accordance with CASA requirements, there is no need for aircraft to enter into holding patterns about the airport.
How will emergency services access be maintained under the expansion plans?
The Airport must operate as a publicly accessible Airport and therefore available for emergency access.
The current DA for expansion of the Pilot Training facility is not required to outline access for emergency aircraft.
Consultation with Airport users including the RFS and Emergency Services occurs on a regular basis and to date no access issues have been reported to Council.
Will the Airport still be accessible by other users once the College is at maximum capacity?
Kempsey Airport is currently significantly underutilised for the purpose for which it was constructed and upgraded. Recreational aviators will have normal access to the airport. Normal flight procedures will apply, as is currently the case.
Is the Airport being sold to foreign ownership?
There is no proposal being considered to sell the Airport.
The development application assessment process, which applies to the current DA for expanding the Training College, does not consider issues of land ownership. Issues regarding leasing or purchasing the land that the airport operates on are the subject of commercial negotiations and could potentially be considered as part of an MoU or lease negotiations with any tenants at the Aviation Business Park.