Published on Tuesday, 20 May 2025 at 2:04:18 PM
Airport Facilities and Services emerged as a new priority in the 2023 Community Scorecard, highlighting concerns around the cost, reliability, and accessibility of passenger flights to and from Esperance.
“Get an airline that works two flights a day and make the fares cheaper so more people can use the service”
“Improve airport to allow for larger planes and provide a small coffee shop for waiting passengers”
- 2023 MARKYT Community Scorecard Comments
This feedback has reinforced the Shire’s commitment to upgrading the Esperance Airport runway.
Two independent assessments have confirmed the need to reconstruct the main runway’s subgrade and pavement. As part of this work, the Shire is also seeking to extend the runway to:
- Enable access for larger commercial and emergency aircraft
- Create opportunities for additional flight routes
- Improve the region’s resilience and economic potential
A business case is nearing completion and will support future funding applications.
The Perth – Esperance route is regulated and licensed by the State Government through the Department of Transport and is allocated to a single airline. Community feedback is considered during these licensing decisions.
While the Shire manages the airport’s infrastructure and leasing, the Council and Shire continue to strongly advocate for reliable airline services. The responsibility to raise community concerns with the State Government and operators is taken seriously.
Shire Services and Facilities at the Airport
The Shire maintains all airport infrastructure, including the runway, taxiways, and aircraft apron. In the airport terminal building, the Shire leases kiosk space for tourism operators such as car hire firms, offers advertising opportunities for local businesses and events, and maintains toilet and lounge facilities.
Consistent community feedback in favour of a café at the airport means that Council and the Shire would seriously consider any proposals put forward by private hospitality operators to develop this type of service.
Other Shire-provided services at the Airport greatly benefiting the community and local economy are:
- Trained staff to carry out aircraft operations such as refueling and baggage handling.
- A modern terminal with lounge seating, 24-hour bathroom access, and vending machines
- Free public WiFi
- Meeting room hire – ideal for business use
- Lease opportunities for food, beverage, or aviation businesses
- New 750m² hangar lease sites expected in 2025/26
- Free parking
- Facilities for community and commercial operators such as RFDS, firefighting aircraft, crop spraying, and tourism operators.
Esperance Airport is a key link in the region’s transport network and an essential hub for emergency services, business, and tourism.
As the region grows, so must its infrastructure. The Shire remains focused on ensuring the airport continues to meet community needs—now and into the future.
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