Update 1 - Update on Enhanced Air Traffic Services at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

Airservices Australia would like to provide an update on the introduction of air traffic control services at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, following a 2022 Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) airspace review and extensive industry engagement since that time.

Airspace safety around Ballina has been progressively enhanced through several initiatives, including the implementation of a Surveillance Flight Information Service (SFIS), installation of an additional Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) ground station, and adjustments to radio frequencies to reduce congestion.

The aerodrome control service, originally planned for 27 November 2025, is now scheduled to commence on 11 June 2026. Detailed analysis of the proposed control tower site has identified several infrastructure challenges, including line-of-sight obstructions. As a result, the aerodrome control service implementation timeframe has been revised to ensure a fit-for purpose solution that meets all regulatory and operational requirements. The introduction of Class D airspace and approach control services will also align with the updated schedule.

Until the new air traffic control service is introduced, SFIS will continue to support safe airspace operations at Ballina.

Airservices will continue to keep stakeholders informed and will resume engagement activities, in coordination with CASA, in line with the revised timeline. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact our Customer Engagement Team at stakeholder@airservicesaustralia.com.