Attending the Australian Airports Association (AAA) VIC/Tas meeting at Avalon Airshow this year was an insightful experience. The event brought together industry professionals to discuss key challenges and developments affecting airports across the region and provided an excellent opportunity to engage with stakeholders and gain valuable insights into the evolving regulatory landscape.
A key focus was the vital role of regional aerodromes, which remain essential to many communities across Australia. These airports serve as critical hubs for emergency services, tourism, and economic growth. Discussions centred on securing funding, maintaining infrastructure, and integrating new technologies to ensure regional aerodromes continue to meet the needs of their communities. As major airports expand, ongoing support for regional facilities is crucial to maintaining an equitable and accessible aviation network.
Another important topic was the upcoming changes to ICAO Annex 14 and their impact on Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS). These revisions will require careful planning and collaboration between regulators, consultants, and airport operators to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
While we await CASA’s assessment of our CASR Part 173 Certificate application—required for designing and publishing instrument procedures in Australia—we are available to provide training on this subject. For more information, contact us!
Following the AAA divisional meeting, we had the privilege of attending the Avalon Airshow trade day. It was exciting to see emerging technologies and explore their potential impact on the aviation industry. The event also provided a great opportunity to connect with both long-standing and new industry partners.
One of the standout exhibitors at Avalon Airshow 2025 was the Papua New Guinea Defence Force Air Transport Wing, which showcased its capabilities in supporting regional and remote operations. Their presence underscored the strategic importance of air transport in maintaining connectivity across Papua New Guinea’s challenging terrain. Conversations with their representatives reinforced the value of collaboration between military and civil aviation sectors, particularly in supporting air operations throughout the Pacific region.
Overall, this event provided valuable insights into the future of airport operations, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. The discussions and exhibits highlighted the dynamic nature of the aviation industry and the ongoing need for innovation and strategic planning to support safe and efficient air transport.
At Aviation Projects, we provide trusted advice about airport planning, development and operations, airspace and instrument flight procedure design and aviation safeguarding. Contact us today.
Tags: Aviation Projects, AAA, Avalon Airshow, Safeguarding, Regional Airports
