A milestone in the Gold Coast Airport redevelopment has been met, with delivery of a $86 million upgrade involving construction of a new apron and taxiway – which will expand capacity and improve efficiency.

The upgrade includes a 20,000sq m expansion of the apron area to facilitate parking for up to four additional aircraft, which is part of the first stage of Project LIFT.

The taxiway project, called Taxiway Charlie, is separate to Project LIFT and creates a full parallel taxiway to the runway – reducing potential delays by allowing aircraft to reach parking positions more efficiently.

The projects have been completed in time for the busy Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games period and come as the airport continues to experience growth in passenger numbers.

Queensland Airports Limited Chief Executive Officer Chris Mills said completion of the apron works was a critical first step in the realisation of Project LIFT.

“This allows us to turn our focus to the delivery of stage two, commencing after the Commonwealth Games. This will see the terminal expanded to the south with provision of aerobridges to service these new aircraft parking bays,” he said.

“In the meantime, these bays can be used as overflow parking space for aircraft during peak times like the Commonwealth Games.”

Mr Mills said Taxiway Charlie would help alleviate bottlenecks during peak times.

“The completion of this project means passengers will experience less time waiting on the taxiways as their plane enters or exits the apron,” he said.

“Improving efficiency is a great outcome for both our passengers and airline partners.”

The airport plans to commence work on stage two of Project LIFT later this year.