A Shorten Labor Government will invest nearly $10 million to make Cairns one of the world’s best destinations for training pilots.
The Deputy Labor Leader, Tanya Plibersek, said this commitment will allow CQUniversity to deliver the final stage of its Asia-Pacific Aviation Hub in Cairns.
“Labor’s funding will go towards a state-of-the-art flight simulator, aviation sensors, tracking equipment, as well as new aircraft hangers and training facilities at Cairns airport,” Ms Plibersek said.
“An aerospace lab will also be established to lead research into pilot fatigue, and air traffic control.
“Our investment will mean Cairns can train up to 150 aviation students a year.
“Who wouldn’t want to learn to fly in paradise?,” Ms Plibersek said.
Labor’s candidate for Leichhardt, Elida Faith, said the investment is a big boost for Cairns.
“Over the next 20 years, the world will need more than 600,000 new commercial airline pilots.
“I want Cairns to take advantage of this enormous demand.
“We have direct air connections to much of Asia and the Pacific.
“This new aviation facility will give our kids the chance to study to become pilots.
“We know regional airlines, including in Far North Queensland, are struggling to find pilots.
“Labor’s commitment will be good for the local economy too.
“The project will support up to 70 jobs during the construction phase, and around 15 ongoing jobs,” Ms Faith said.
This commitment to the CQUniversity Asia-Pacific Aviation Hub is part of Labor’s $300 million University Future Fund.

BACKGROUND ON STAGE 1 OF THE PROJECT
https://www.cqu.edu.au/cquninews/stories/general-category/2018/cquniversity-announces-stage-one-of-asia-pacific-aviation-education-and-research-hub