Queenstown Airport International Terminal
Working in a high security area
The Airport remained open during construction of the terminal extension. Great care was put into completing the project without impact on the usual operation of the facility. The consequences of interrupting a flight were too severe to even consider, so this was extremely high on our risk register.
Through the full engagement of the project team, from client, consultants to contractors, our team delivered the desired result on time, and to budget, with minimal impact of defects given the fast track nature of the project.
Double in size
Driven by large year-on-year international passenger growth, the 4,080 m² additions to the southern end of the terminal almost doubled the size of the airport’s international operations. These changes allow the airport to process up to 1,000 passengers per hour, compared to the previous limit of only 480. The terminal can now better cater for existing passenger volumes and accommodate future growth.
The extension houses a new international arrival and departure lounges, new customs area, baggage claim and handling areas, covered walkway, Duty Free section, a retail area, cafes and office space. The extension provides a quality enhancement to the already celebrated and internationally recognised Queenstown Airport, offering a development meeting international standards and exceeding expectations, while maintaining seamless integration with the existing facility to maintain the unique identity that the airport is renowned for.
In the first week of operations the new extensions had 22 international flights in or out in a 5 hour period.
How about Safety?
The site required a full time H&S coordinator at all times. This role was to induct and manage the workforce’s safety on site, managing and enforcing Cook Brothers Construction H&S system and Site Specific Safety Plan, incorporating the liaison between the construction site and the tight security measures of a fully operational international airport. A bridge was used to pass from landside to the site, which was fully hoarded to make the site airside as well, thus negating the challenges that come with airside work.
The site had daily start up meetings and all personnel entering the site had to sign in and wear full PPE equipment. This site was a full time hardhat site at all times.
Task Analysis were undertaken for any high risk activities including excavation, demolition, precast installation, structural steel erection and large concrete pours.
A solar powered time-lapse camera was set up at the site and the footage was used to help monitor H&S and project progression.
