Auckland Airport Unveils Long-Term Master Plan, Charting the Future of Aviation and Infrastructure
(IN SHORT) Auckland Airport has released its updated Master Plan, setting out a long-term vision for the airport’s development into the 2040s. The draft plan covers key priorities such as terminal integration, a second runway, and a future mass rapid transport corridor. The updated timeline for the second runway, now expected later than initially planned, reflects the airport’s focus on operational efficiency and sustainability. Over the coming months, Auckland Airport will consult with stakeholders and the public before finalizing the plan by the end of the year.
(PRESS RELEASE) AUCKLAND, 2025-Apr-29 — /Travel PR News/ —Auckland Airport has unveiled its updated Master Plan, offering a comprehensive vision for the airport’s development through to the late 2040s. This marks the first major revision in over a decade and outlines a forward-looking strategy that reflects evolving customer expectations, technological advancements, climate resilience, and the growing needs of Auckland and New Zealand.
The Master Plan, still in draft form, extends beyond the airport’s core operations—such as the airfield, terminals, and other aeronautical assets—to encompass broader priorities, including sustainability, innovation, and community wellbeing.
“We’ve seen significant changes since our last Master Plan update in 2014, and this new approach reflects the evolving landscape of both aviation and the needs of New Zealand,” said Auckland Airport’s Chief Strategic Planning Officer, Mary-Liz Tuck. “This plan is a continuation of our long-term vision for the airport, ensuring that we’re building appropriately today while keeping the future in mind.”
The Master Plan identifies key priorities, including the integration of terminals, the construction of a second runway, and the development of a future mass rapid transport corridor. Sustainability remains at the heart of the plan, with an emphasis on reducing environmental impact while increasing operational efficiency.
“The Master Plan isn’t a detailed construction or capital plan,” Ms. Tuck explained. “It’s a framework for future investment decisions. It ensures that when we invest in infrastructure, we’re doing so with a clear understanding of how each asset will fit into the bigger picture and serve New Zealand’s long-term needs.”
A significant update in the draft Master Plan involves the second runway. Initially expected to be operational by 2028, the timeline has been extended by a decade. However, operational innovations in airfield efficiency may push this timeline even further into the future.
“We are still planning for a second runway as part of our roadmap. However, through operational improvements, we anticipate the need for a second runway later than initially expected. Our ongoing investments in airfield expansion and a new consolidated cargo precinct are all being designed with this future development in mind,” Ms. Tuck said. “If our existing runway can no longer meet the required capacity, we will consult with airlines and other stakeholders before moving forward with this major commitment.”
The Master Plan forecasts that by 2047, Auckland Airport will serve approximately 38 million passengers—double the current number—and handle over 223,000 tonnes of air cargo, a more than 40% increase. These projections are based on long-term trends and are continually updated to reflect changing market conditions.
“When planning for an airport over several decades, we must look beyond short-term fluctuations and consider projected passenger volumes. This is a fundamental aspect of long-term planning,” Ms. Tuck said. “We’ve refined our forecasts since the last update in 2024, and we will continue to review them to ensure they accurately reflect post-pandemic recovery trends.”
In the coming months, Auckland Airport will engage in consultations with airlines, government agencies, stakeholders, and the local community to gather feedback on the draft Master Plan. A final version will be released by the end of the year, following a thorough review of the feedback.
“We recognize that it’s been over 10 years since the last update, but we’re committed to revisiting our Master Plan regularly. By updating it every five years, we can ensure our long-term planning remains aligned with the needs of our people, our communities, and New Zealand as a whole,” said Ms. Tuck.
For more information and to read the draft Master Plan, visit: www.AKLMasterPlan2025.co.nz
Media contact:
+64 (0)27 406 3024.
SOURCE: Auckland International Airport Ltd.
