Wellington Airport is said to boost the local airport by over NZD $2 billion according to the latest figures that indicate the airport's growth.
A new economic impact report estimates Wellington Airport contributes over 14,500 jobs and NZD $2 billion in GDP to the Wellington region’s economy.
The report was completed by Business and Economic Research (BERL). It highlights how the airport enables industries like export education, trade and tourism as well as business, personal and cultural exchanges.
At the airport precinct itself there are around 1600 full-time equivalent roles for over 100 different employers, including airlines, engineers, retail, hospitality, government agencies and transport services.
Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke said Most people instinctively know how important a major airport is to a region, but this analysis gives solid numbers to quantify this.
“It highlights the benefits of different industries that wouldn’t exist in the same shape or form without the connectivity air travel brings.
“Wellington is an isolated city on the edge of the world. The airport bridges the gap to the rest of New Zealand and beyond, allowing successful businesses to base themselves here – it’s a long drive to Auckland for a sales meeting.
“As just one example, in 2024 over 234,000 international visitors will arrive in Wellington via the airport and spend NZD $375 million in the region.”
Wellington Airport has also begun public consultation on potential new flight path options for northerly jet departures.
This follows changes made in 2022 which have meant fewer departures over Newlands and more over Khandallah and Broadmeadows. While this has meant reduced noise impacts for some residents, others have experienced a noise increase.
“Each has different benefits and drawbacks, and it’s unavoidable there will flights be over residential areas under each option. We will carefully consider all feedback before working with Airways on next steps.”
The 2022 changes are part of a system called Divergent Missed Approach Protection System (DMAPS). DMAPS was initiated and developed by Airways, New Zealand’s air navigation service provider, and approved by Wellington Airport and the Civil Aviation Authority.
More news here.
