North Kimberley Airport occupies 46 km2 of native title land, its use is governed by a long-term lease agreement between North Kimberley Airport and the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation (“WGAC”). North Kimberley Airport was given CASA registration R093 in April 2005.

The 1800m x 30m sealed runway provides significant efficiencies for aviation operations in the Kimberley and Timor Sea areas of northern Australia. The airport can support narrow-body airline and charter traffic, making direct flights to and from state capitals a feasible option for oil and gas and other offshore operators, as well as enabling emergency support services to be provided to offshore operations and the ability to facilitate convenient visits by company executives to offshore facilities. It has all the equipment and facilities necessary to provide aviation logistic support to operations including coastal surveillance services, the oil and gas industry, pearling, aquaculture, fisheries, minerals exploration and mining, aerial surveys, defence, tourism and other operations requiring a support base in the Kimberley.

All buildings are cyclone-rated and termite-treated, with 80 en-suite single accommodation rooms. Hangar One, measuring 529m², can accommodate one S92 helicopters, while Hangar Two, measuring 774m², can accommodate three S92 helicopters.

North Kimberley Airport

(see the base on Google Maps)

Voice and data communications are provided through Telstra's high capacity radio concentrator (HCRC) system, in conjunction with internet access through a broadband two-way satellite system. Equipment also includes HF radio back-up through VJY and fixed and mobile aviation VHF transmission.

Regional operators Airnorth, Paspaley Aviation, Hardy Aviation, National Jet Express, Nexus Aviation and Alliance Airlines use North Kimberley Airport, with a variety of aircraft including Fokker 70, Embraer 170, Metro 23, Embraer 120, Dash 8 types and Beechcraft 1900. Offshore Services Australasia and CHC Helicopters currently maintain and operate S92 helicopters from the airport.

All stores, office and workshops are dust-proofed and air-conditioned. En-suite accommodation is provided for up to 80 personnel. Communal facilities comprise an air-conditioned lounge with Foxtel, swimming pool, dining room, kitchen, gymnasium/poolroom, transit lounge and outdoor recreational facilities.

Jet A1 aviation fuel is dispensed airside through aircraft refuelling trucks with a maximum holding of 180,000 litres; for under wing or pressure refuelling. Avgas is supplied on an as required basis. Dedicated barge services delivers fuel by sea to the landing area at West Bay, 10km east of the camp. Single barge capacity is 130 tonnes with approximately 60 kilolitres regularly taken up with fuel. Delivery frequency is matched to fuel requirements.