Avalon Airport was founded in 1952, when the Commonwealth purchased 4,333 acres to enable the construction and testing of the Canberra Jet Bomber Aircraft.
Since then, Avalon Airport has played a key role in Australia’s aerospace industry.
Many important defence projects were based at Avalon, particularly during the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. These aircraft included:
- The Mirage
- FA 18
- Avro Lincoln
- Blackhawk Helicopters
In early 1997, Linfox purchased Avalon Airport from the Commonwealth.
At the time, the airport was largely vacant, and only 150 people were employed at the facility on a full-time basis.
Today, under private ownership, around 1,300 people are employed full-time at Avalon Airport, with hundreds more in downstream industries supporting Avalon’s operations. In less than a decade, Avalon Airport has established itself as a major employment and economic centre of the Melbourne – Geelong Corridor.
Avalon is now a Qantas location for the maintenance and servicing of B747 aircraft. Operating 364 days a year, 16 hours a day, there are currently three 747 hangars used by Qantas for aircraft maintenance operations.
In conjunction with these aircraft maintenance activities, Avalon continues to expand its operation, including working towards establishing the facility as an international airfreight centre. Avalon manages international airfreight movements, particularly for freight associated with major Melbourne events, such as the Formula One Grand Prix.
Avalon is also the site of an International Airshow. In March 2009, the 9th Australian International Airshow was held, with more than 200,000 visitors from over 50 countries attending over the five days.
Since taking over Avalon Airport, Linfox has invested many millions in upgrading the airport's facilities and infrastructure.
On 1 June 2004, the first Jetstar passengers at Avalon used the Arrivals Terminal, Departures Terminal, a 900-space car park and all the infrastructure required to accommodate commercial airline passengers. Now, up to 2,800 people pass through Avalon each day.
2009 and beyond will see further exciting developments for Avalon Airport due to the increased number of daily flights and destinations on the Jetstar schedule. This will lead to further expansion of the terminals and carpark and more facilities for passengers and visitors.