Lockhart River Airport
Lockhart River boasts a 1500m sealed and secure, all weather runway which can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During the wet season when road access can be cut for months, the airport plays a key role in getting vital supplies and services into the community.
The airport provides ground services for Skytrans passenger services, government and private charters, tourist groups and private aircraft, as well as AV-GAS, Jet A1 and Diesel refuelling services.
The Lockhart River Airport is located five kilometres from the Lockhart River community and is operated by the Lockhart River Aerodrome Company Pty Ltd, an independent entity owned by the Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council.
** Important – Flight Check In Time. You must arrive at the airport and check in at least 1 hour prior to your flight departure.
Lockhart River Airport Services & Facilities
Lockhart Aerodrome Company Pty Ltd provides important services and facilities to ensure the safe and critical operation of all incoming and outgoing flights to Lockhart River 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Airport Ground Services
- Ticketing
- Baggage handling
- Security
- Passenger check in
- Directing pilots on the runway and taxiway
- Aircraft refuelling
Airport Maintenance
- Runway clearance checks
- Runway surface maintenance
- Airside and approach grounds maintenance
- General aerodrome grounds maintenance
- Airport building maintenance
Airport Facilities
- Refuelling service: Jet A1 and AVGAS 24 hrs per day / 7 days a week. *Please note: Additional fees are charged for afterhours refuelling)
- Diesel fuel bowser – Open to public during business hours
- Terminal building has seating and toilet facilities
- Car Hire available via Lockhart River Car Hire
Lockhart River Airport History
During World War II, a large bomber base was set up by the United States Army Air Corp at Lockhart River with four airstrips operating, playing a critical strategic role for American and Australian Military Forces. The current Lockhart River Airport is located on one of the original runways, and the location of former Air Force campsites, administration facilities, demolition storage facilities, the cookhouse and bunkers can still be identified.
The US bombers would fly to the Coral Sea battles and be met by their fighter escorts based at Bamaga and Horn Island further north. Many thousands of troops, both US and Australian passed through as part of their jungle training before being shipped to SE Asia. Portland Road community, 40 km north of Lockhart River, with its large jetty, was the supply port for the war effort. The jetty has since been removed.
The Iron Range Cabins cabins are named individually after World War II American bomber aircraft, reflecting the significant role of the Lockhart River airport during the War.
