Stage one of development, which is costing upwards of $9 million, involves expansion of the airport terminal and will include a new cafe, retail area, a new baggage carousel and more passenger seating.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall met with representatives from Armidale Regional Council and A W Edwards to discuss progress.

“In addition to our beautiful new terminal, the upgrade will also provide Armidale with an expanded airport apron, allowing for more flights into and out of Armidale and the capacity to accommodate larger planes,” Mr Marshall said.

“By investing in these major works, we are ensuring the airport will be able to support growing passenger numbers and stimulate Armidale’s continued growth as a regional economic hub.”

Armidale Regional Council administrator Ian Tiley said it was important to keep the facilities inline with growing demand.

Demand such as more passengers passing through and the launch of a new daily airline service to Brisbane.

“It’s a big deal … we’re spending $16.5 million in this one calendar year,” Mr Tiley said.

“What that will mean for the economy and economic development is huge.”

A W Edwards site manager Tom Mitchell said the first part of the development would involve extending the airport out by about 26 metres.

“We’re doing stage one which is due for completion around the end of May,” he said.

“After that we’ll move into stage two which will be the refurbishment of the departure lounge, baggage collection area, refreshments facilities and car hire.”

And it’s not just council and the government who are excited about the changes.

Frequent flyers Bea and Sam Baker from Glen Innes are excited to reap the benefits of the new facilities. 

“Being a frequent user of the airport here, it’s going to be fantastic to have improved facilities,”  Ms Baker said.

Mr Baker said he hoped that the renovations would boost wait times, with more space in the event of a delay.