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Personnel at RAAF Base Darwin have welcomed air traffic control (ATC) upgrades that will see state-of-the-art equipment installed in a new tower under construction. Part of the broader "OneSKY" collaboration between Defence and Airservices Australia, completion is slated for 2021.
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Contractor Lendlease started construction in July 2019 at the site of the joint military and civilian airfield, leased by Darwin International Airport. According to Defence, the main support structure has increased in height by about six metres a week since April.
The new tower is part of a wider Defence infrastructure program – AIR5431 Phases 2 and 3 – which will deliver new or upgraded air traffic control facilities at 12 Defence bases across Australia.
A major milestone is planned later this month, with the installation of the top of the tower carried out using a 500-tonne hydraulic crane.
Commanding Officer of No. 452 Squadron, Wing Commander Andy Hoare, said that the personnel who support military and civilian air movements at Darwin Airport would transfer to the new facility when completed.
“The new infrastructure will provide a more flexible and conducive work environment for our highly professional and highly skilled personnel who maintain air traffic control services for the Defence Force and civilian passengers travelling through the airport,” said WGCDR Hoare.
“Tower facilities will also support a future upgrade of the air traffic control system. The new tower and the accompanying facilities are essential for us to continue to safely manage ground and airspace operations."
Senior Officer of RAAF Base Darwin, Wing Commander Andrew Anthony, also said the facility was a welcome upgrade.
“With elevator and stairwell access to the control cabin level, the new facilities will house an external observation deck, crew rest area, kitchenette and a mechanical plant room,” WGCDR Anthony said.
“Once services are being provided from the new tower, the old tower will be demolished in order to provide an unobstructed view from the new location.
“The new tower and the accompanying facilities are essential for us to continue to safely manage ground and airspace operations.”
Construction is complete at most locations. The final construction phase at Darwin should be completed by late 2021, with the tower expected to be operational by late 2023.
