Project Overview

Southpac Aerospace has been an integral partner in Newcastle Airport’s terminal expansion, contributing to a range of initiatives that enhance operational readiness, safety, and efficiency. This transformative project includes the installation of state-of-the-art systems, process development, and the creation of a flexible Swing terminal design to accommodate both domestic and international operations.

Objectives

Southpac Aerospace focused on delivering support for three main areas of the Newcastle Airport terminal expansion:

• Upgrading the apron and enhancing passenger facilities with the installation of a Passenger Boarding Bridge (PBB), allowing for faster boarding and disembarking, especially for wide-body aircraft.
• Ensuring the terminal is fully operational and ready to open through the Operational Readiness Activation and Transition (ORAT) program. This includes testing systems, refining processes, and preparing staff.
• Enabling flexible operations with a Swing terminal design. This allows the terminal to switch between domestic and international modes, meeting international standards without requiring dedicated facilities.

Execution

Southpac Aerospace supported the development of new processes and procedures to install and operate the new PBB at the terminal’s international stand, enhancing the passenger experience and allowing Newcastle to attract more major carriers, operating up to widebody Code E aircraft.

Through the ORAT program, Southpac conducted workshops on airside operations and passenger processing, prepared Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and developed risk registers and training plans. These efforts have been critical to ensuring the terminal is ready to operate smoothly and efficiently when the expansion opens.

The implementation of the Swing terminal configuration was another critical aspect of the project. By using movable barriers, additional security checks, and adaptable layouts, the airport can efficiently switch between domestic and international operations without dedicating large permanent areas to international flights.

Key Deliverables

• The Passenger Boarding Bridge (PBB) installed to support international operations.
• Workshops on airside operations and passenger processing conducted to prepare staff for the upcoming changes.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), risk registers, and training plans developed to ensure a smooth transition.
• The framework for the Swing terminal configuration developed, along with plans to test its functionality.

Impact and Outcomes

The terminal expansion enhances Newcastle Airport’s ability to handle more passengers while attracting international airlines. The new infrastructure improves efficiency and passenger comfort, making the airport more competitive in the region.

Operational readiness ensures a smooth transition to the expanded terminal, minimising disruptions during the opening phase. The flexible Swing terminal design allows the airport to adapt quickly to international traffic demands without compromising domestic services.

Southpac Aerospace’s partnership with Newcastle Airport reflects a shared commitment to advancing aviation infrastructure, ensuring safety, and delivering a superior passenger experience.

Expanding Our Partnership

Southpac Aerospace further strengthened its collaboration with Newcastle Airport by delivering the AVISS00053 Aerodrome Reporting Officer Skill Set training to several members of the airport’s operations team. This comprehensive training equips Aerodrome Reporting Officers (AROs) with the essential skills and knowledge to perform tasks mandated by aerodrome legislation, ensuring the safe and competent management of the aerodrome.

The course meets the requirements of the Part 139 (Aerodromes) Manual of Standards 2019 and aligns with national competency standards supported by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), underscoring Southpac’s commitment to excellence in aviation training, enhancing operational safety and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

This initiative showcases Southpac Aerospace’s ability to offer services beyond infrastructure projects supporting all facets of airport operations through expert training and consultancy.