The airport’s freight handling capacity has increased with the new unloading area built to meet growing and future demand from freight operators.
The apron is over an area larger than six rugby fields with more than 11km of underground services and was built using lower-emission asphalt and recycled construction materials.
Celebrating the completed project yesterday was Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, airport chief executive Justin Watson, Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger and freight operators, exporters and industry leaders.
Mr Watson said the project was an investment in the future of Christchurch and the South Island.
‘‘The way businesses move products around the world is changing rapidly,’’ he said in a statement.
‘‘Exporters need fast, reliable connections to global markets, and this apron gives us the capacity and flexibility to support that growth for decades to come.’’
He said the development was built ahead of demand to prepare for future opportunities.
Mr Luxon said the new infrastructure would be a gateway to the world.
‘‘This is mission-critical infrastructure and it is truly world class.’’
The freight apron is part of wider investment on the airport campus, including the development of DHL’s new international gateway facility and a major expansion at the neighbouring Freightways operation.
FedEx has just confirmed it will develop a new facility on the airport campus, securing a prime development site next to the new freight apron.
FedEx Express New Zealand and Fiji national sales manager James Edgeworth said strong demand was coming from exporters and importers for fast, reliable access to global markets.
‘‘Christchurch Airport’s investment in freight infrastructure will strengthen connectivity and improve access to international markets over time.
Anzco Foods logistics head Brent Falvey said the new freight apron would help support South Island businesses by getting products to the market quickly.
‘‘Investments like this strengthen the connections that businesses across the South Island rely on every day.’’
Other campus developments include an expanded Pratt & Whitney engine centre.
