Hamilton International Airport Bhas added another feather in its cap by securing approval for extending its runway by 3,000 miles. Now, it would also stand proudly in comparison to other airports like Australia's Gold Coast.

According to the airport authorities, the extension in the runway is "major milestone in its history". Chief Executive Chris Doak declared Hamilton would now become a low-cost secondary airport gateway in and out of New Zealand. He further asserted, "There are clear parallels to the secondary airport models developed in other parts of the world including Gold Coast, Avalon, and Stansted airport in the UK”.

Airport authorities said their master plan would get stretched to 2030, and said further approval would be needed, so they could identify suitable partners to help them make this project a successful one. And, for that it would take time.

The approval and recommendations are for extended runway, taxiways, extensive apron, associated air noise boundaries and they also include land designations at both ends of the runway for the protection of runway lights and navigation aids. So that it allows the implementation of instrument landing system and high intensity lighting in support of long haul wide body services.