Parkes Airport is an airport located 4NM northeast of Parkes, New South Wales..
The Parkes Regional Airport apron lighting upgrade is now complete, shining the way towards safer aviation operations.
This project involved replacing the outdated apron lighting system, originally installed in 1974, with modern, energy-efficient LED lights that meet current standards and deliver the necessary lux levels.
Apron lighting helps to guide aircraft and also ground vehicles to the correct positions on the runway apron, such as to a gate or a maintenance area.
The new LED lights were installed on two existing towers, and a new tower was installed to improve and broaden the lighting.
The brighter lights will increase the effectiveness of CCTV security monitoring of the precinct and provide a safer operational area for aircraft crew, passengers, emergency services and aero-medical evacuations.
The project was delivered thanks to $55,357 from the Australian Government’s Regional Airports Program, with Parkes Shire Council providing a matching contribution.
Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King had this to say about the project “Parkes Regional Airport provides the local community with a critical connection to Sydney, keeping them connected with family, friends and services such as healthcare. “Not only will this upgrade bolster safety for passengers, it will also back the vital aviation medical and firefighting services that operate in the region – making a real difference when an emergency situation strikes.”
Parkes Shire Council Mayor, Neil Westcott also added “There are many community members that rely on the Parkes Regional Airport to conduct business, access essential social services and medical specialists, as well as stay in touch with friends and family.
“The airport provides vital services to the Royal Flying Doctor, Air Ambulance, Angel Flight and NSW Rural Fire Service. This project replaced almost 50-year-old lighting and complements the other improvement projects across the airport precinct over the past 10 years.”