A new Virgin Australia cargo facility is set to be built at Launceston Airport, providing a much needed boost to local Tasmanian businesses who rely on airfreight to get their products to market.
The $4 million project, which is expected to be completed by September 2023, will be the hub for all Northern Tasmania cargo operations and will be able to transport almost 500 tonnes of products each year.
Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said the upgrade will modernize the 800-square-metre facility, positioning Virgin Australia Cargo to meet the ever-increasing demand for cargo.
“As an island state, it’s critical that our producers can ship to customers. This new cargo facility will enhance Virgin Australia Cargo’s ability to export goods in a timely manner so that customers around Australia and the world can enjoy fresh Tasmanian seafood and produce on their own dinner tables,” he said.
The upgraded facility is expected to see nearly half a million kilograms of premium Tasmanian exports, including seafood and agricultural products, through its doors and into domestic and international markets each year.
The Tasmanian Government, through Deputy Premier and Treasurer Michael Ferguson, is investing $1.6 million to support the redevelopment due to the benefits it will provide Tasmanian producers.
He noted that air freight links are critical to the Tasmanian economy, supporting freight supply chains for time-sensitive freight, including the valuable seafood and horticulture sectors.
