MEDIA RELEASE - Katanning Airport to close from 16 November for runway repairs
Published on Tuesday, 3 November 2026 at 8:32:09 AM
3 November 2026
MEDIA RELEASE
Katanning Airport to close from 16 November for runway repairs
Katanning Airport will temporarily close from 16 November 2026 to enable the Shire of Katanning to complete runway repairs. The airport is expected to reopen during the week beginning 14 December 2026, weather permitting.
Fulton Hogan has been contracted to undertake the works which are estimated to cost approximately $1.56 million (ex GST), including the delivery of specialist project management and quality assurance services. Works include reconstructing failed sections of runway pavement, resealing the full runway and reinstating runway line markings.
Recognising the potential financial impost of these works on ratepayers, the Council has successfully sought grant funding, as follows;
- Australian Government’s Regional Airports Program ($481,000),
- Western Australian Government’s Regional Airports Development Scheme ($437,333), and
- Royalties for Regions ($138,183).
The Shire’s cash contribution is estimated to be $504,559 which will be drawn from a combination of cash reserves and debt finance (subject to a community notice period). All amounts exclude GST.
Airport closure will most significantly affect patient transfers by the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and fire bombers arranged through the Department of Fire & Emergency Services (DFES).
During the closure period, RFDS advises it will operate a helicopter service for daytime evacuations from Katanning while night-time evacuations will be transferred through neighbouring airports, most likely either Wagin or Kojonup.
Similarly, DFES advises it will use either Wagin, Kojonup or Gnowangerup airports during the closure period. At each of these facilities DFES has both water and fuel available and staff trained in dispatching water & fuel to water bombers. Although a local private airstrip has been offered, DFES considers any fill or refuel delays caused by using neighbouring airports, will be negligible and has therefore declined the use of this private airstrip.
The Shire acknowledges the disruption the temporary closure will cause and thanks airport users, emergency service agencies and the community for their patience while these essential repairs are completed.
For further information
Cr Kristy D’Aprile
President
Shire of Katanning
0427 211 705