A proposed $30 million upgrade to Mildura Airport could do more than improve the runway — it could help open the door to more visitors coming to the region.
Mildura Rural City Council is seeking funding for major runway, taxiway and apron upgrades as part of its current advocacy priorities.
Council says the investment would allow the airport to support larger aircraft and increased passenger capacity, while improving Mildura's ability to attract visitors, investment and business activity.
Passenger numbers expected to grow
Mildura Airport's 2025 Master Plan says the airport was approaching 270,000 passengers a year when its forecasts were prepared.
The airport has adopted a 3 per cent annual passenger growth forecast, with that growth expected to require expansion of airport facilities and infrastructure over time.
Larger aircraft have also been part of previous discussions around upgrading Mildura's runway, including Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft.
No new airline or destination has been announced as part of the current proposal, but greater airport capacity could provide more options as passenger demand grows.
Could more flights mean more tourists?
That's where the proposal becomes particularly interesting for Mildura.
Council has previously reported $220 million in visitor spending over a 12-month period, including strong growth in spending at attractions and events, restaurants, wineries and breweries.
Separate tourism data recorded more than 900,000 visitors to the wider Mildura-Wentworth tourism region during 2024.
Mildura is also continuing to build its tourism offering through major events, the Murray River, food and wine, national parks and attractions such as the Trail of Lights.
With the airport expecting passenger demand to continue growing, improving Mildura's main gateway by air could become another important piece of that tourism push.
The $30 million question is whether a bigger and more capable Mildura Airport can ultimately help bring more visitors — and more visitor spending — into Sunraysia.
Have Your Say
Do you believe the proposed airport upgrade would benefit our region in the short term?
Poll not displaying? Vote directly on StrawPoll
