Major construction works underway at Perth Airport
With the July school holidays looming, Perth Airport is reminding family holiday-makers to expect increased traffic congestion due to major project construction works.
Perth Airport is investing more than $5billion in new aviation infrastructure with the first multi-storey carpark already under construction near Terminals 1 and 2.
The changed road layout required for the construction work to continue safely is placing pressure on access roads and especially the entrance to the Terminal 1 and 2 forecourts.
Perth Airport’s Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer Kate Holsgrove said building major projects within an operating airport environment was always going to present challenges for traffic management.
“When we first announced the car park project in March of last year, we warned that there would be some pain for travellers due to traffic congestion,’ Ms Holsgrove said.
“It’s a message we have repeated consistently because some disruption is simply unavoidable, and we appreciate the patience being shown by motorists and travellers.
“We know this transition period is causing some headaches and frustration for travellers and we’re doing our best to minimise the pain.
“Major project works within the Airport Central precinct will continue for some time and these works will impact different parts of the road network at different times.
“We are constantly monitoring the impact of these works and will be ready to implement changes to try to improve traffic flows.
“We are working on measures to help ease traffic pressure in the T1/T2 area and these, combined with the re-opening of lanes on Sugarbird Lady Road in August, will make a difference.”
Ms Holsgrove says families heading away over the holidays should aim to arrive at the airport earlier than they normally would.
“Regular travellers such as FIFO workers are now aware of the potential for delays and would be adjusting their travel habits,” Ms Holsgrove said.
“But for many families heading off on a school holiday trip, this may be the first time they’ve come to the airport since construction works started.
“We just want them to be aware that the traffic will be heavier than they have previously experienced.
“We’ll be undertaking a significant communications campaign with advertising in traditional media outlets and increased messaging through our own social media platforms to help raise awareness.
“We’re asking passengers to allow extra time when travelling to the terminal and to expect delays. This includes passengers using the shuttle bus service from the long -term car parks which may take longer than usual due to the congestion.
“The school holidays is always a busy time so we’re reminding passengers that they should plan to arrive at least three hours before an international service and 90 minutes before domestic flights, including regional services.
“We also encourage passengers to consider alternative modes of transportation, such as the train that stops conveniently at Airport Central Station (adjacent to T1 and T2).
“Perth Airport thanks Western Australians for their patience and cooperation as we build an even better airport.”