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Tennant Creek Airport may see $30–35 million in upgrades that could boost its capacity and enable regular jet services.
The airport in the NT’s Barkly region, operated by Airport Development Group, may see growth of up to 100,000 passengers per year under a new concept plan to convert it into an “aviation and accommodation hub” for regular passenger and FIFO travel.
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Among the proposed upgrades are the extension and strengthening of the airport’s runway; expansion and upgrades to the apron to support direct FIFO fixed-wing and rotary connections; terminal and car park renovations; and a “dedicated Essential Key Worker Accommodation Precinct” that could house up to 100 government, Defence, and industry personnel.
ADG chief executive Tony Edmondstone said the “transformative” project could help “future-proof the Barkly [region]” and allow Tennant Creek to be a “high-performance regional centre for aviation, logistics and services”.
“It will support the creation of jobs, improve liveability, and strengthen regional connectivity – ultimately driving down the cost of travel and enabling industries and communities to thrive,” Edmondstone said.
“Aviation is the backbone of regional Australia. Upgrading this infrastructure is not just about aircraft – it’s about unlocking access to opportunity.
“It means faster, safer connections for people, services, freight, and investment. It means being able to support the critical workforce needed to power key sectors including energy, mining, health, education, and Defence.
“The Barkly is rich in resources and renewable energy potential, and this precinct will be central to unlocking those assets for the nation’s benefit.”
ADG will schedule a roundtable for late April or early May to allow input from government, industry and the community on what it bills as “a long-term solution to the growing aviation and logistics needs of the Barkly”.
“Currently, Tennant Creek Airport services are a mix of medical, government, tourism, and charter flights. Although fit for purpose today, the current Airport infrastructure is insufficient to support the significant growth expected in the Barkly,” ADG said in a press release.
“ADG’s proposal addresses these constraints and enables long-term scalability.”
In particular, ADG said, the Essential Key Worker Accommodation Precinct would help address the region’s housing shortage.
“Already generating strong interest from government and Defence agencies, the precinct proposes to offer secure, modern accommodation for staff working in the Barkly’s most critical roles,” the company said.
“Importantly, the project is supported by the Barkly Regional Council, Northern Territory Government agencies, and local stakeholders, who see this as a pivotal enabler of economic resilience and social equity for the region.”
Tennant Creek Airport is currently served by Airnorth, with flights to Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs.
