Warren Entsch (Leichhardt, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise this afternoon to highlight a success story in my electorate. The Cairns Airport recently topped the on-time performance for all airports across Australia and New Zealand. They have also ranked globally amongst small airports with an on-time performance of 83.7 per cent. Cairns Airport CEO, Norris Carter, was asked at the time what the secret to the airport's success was and he said, 'This extraordinary achievement is only possible thanks to the dedication and commitment of our entire airport community.' No truer words have been spoken. The entire Far North Queensland community is extremely proud of our airport and the critical role it plays. It is the heartbeat of our local economy. The Cairns Airport is currently undergoing a $55 million domestic terminal upgrade that will significantly improve the customers' experience. The 10,000 square metre expansion will see the departures hall receiving additional seating and an improved layout, simplifying navigation of the terminal for passengers. An additional 2,000 square metres for dining and retail options will also be devoted to showcasing the best of tropical North Queensland to the world. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank the management and the staff of the airport for the wonderful work that they do on a daily basis and congratulate CEO Norris Carter on a job well done in connecting Far North Queenslanders to Australia and the world. (Time expired)