Congratulations to James Cornish who recently collected the Australian Institute of Building Qld Chapter High Commendation for Project Management for the @Gold Coast Airport redevelopment project.
Gold Coast Airport welcomes over 6.5 million passengers each year. To meet demand and deliver an enhanced passenger experience, the 30,000m2 terminal expansion was the most significant upgrade in the airport’s history. The three-storey building incorporates new shops, cafes, upgraded passenger facilities, lounge areas, border control facilities, four glass aerobridges, and six new gates. A unique innovation is the ‘swing gate’ function, which maximises flexibility across international and domestic operations.
RCP Australia worked with Queensland Airports Limited on the $300M Gold Coast Airport redevelopment through COVID-19 and numerous other challenges to deliver this complex project.
RCP Director, Greg Atkinson said, “This project has truly been a team effort from RCP’s perspective. It is fantastic for James and the entire RCP team involved in this project over the last five years to be recognised with this award.”
About the project:
The Gold Coast International Terminal Expansion was a monumental endeavour in aviation infrastructure development. The project has enhanced operational capabilities, can accommodate future growth, and has elevated passenger experience.
RCP was appointed project director and performed project management, superintendency and programming roles to assist Queensland Airports Limited (QAL) in the delivery and activation of this exceptional project.
Airside Processing Zone (APZ)
The APZ addressed critical operational constraints, such as peak-time apron congestion and limitations on terminal expansion. James oversaw the seamless integration of civil works and construction, facilitating the creation of a purpose-built structure for aircraft boarding processes. Meticulous coordination with design consultants and contractors, saw the implementation of flexible facilities capable of accommodating international and domestic departures.
Southern Terminal Expansion (STE)
The 30,000sqm Southern Terminal Expansion (STE), the largest portion of the $270 million redevelopment, was completed in November 2022. The three-level terminal building extension includes four glass aerobridges, six new gates and room for up to 19 large aircraft, seven escalators and nine lifts, new boarding facilities, a departure lounge, baggage handling and border control facilities plus new shops and cafes.
The new terminal houses the airport’s international operations, with the capacity to service domestic flights using a ‘swing gate system’ activated on demand. This exceptional operational flexibility works via elements that ‘swing’ (such as gates, aerobridges, and baggage claim) between international and domestic use. James’ leadership fostered collaboration among stakeholders, enabling the design and construction of a state-of-the-art facility that enhances customer experience and operational efficiency.
Complex Stakeholder Management
The project required deft management of diverse stakeholder interests, from regulatory agencies to commercial entities, to align with project objectives. By identifying and addressing stakeholder concerns early in the project, RCP facilitated the approvals processes, design iterations, and to achieve the timely project delivery.
Key Achievements and Innovations
Integrated Project Management Model
The team spearheaded an integrated project management approach, collaborating closely with the airport’s internal team, design consultants, and contractors. This collaborative model facilitated proactive decision-making, streamlined communication, and effective risk management throughout the project lifecycle.
The contract was a two-stage D&C, with an ECI phase. This approach, coupled with RCP’s strategic oversight, enabled value engineering, risk mitigation, and timely project delivery within budgetary constraints.
Operational Agility and Safety Focus
Unparalleled agility was demonstrated in managing operational disruptions and safety challenges inherent in airport construction. Meticulous planning and coordination minimised disruption to operations, ensured stringent safety standards were maintained, and risks such as Foreign Object Debris (FOD) were effectively managed.
RCP’s’ exemplary management of the operational interface complexities was instrumental in the successful delivery of the project. By navigating operational challenges, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and implementing innovative solutions, a new standard for excellence in aviation infrastructure development was set. This project demonstrates their commitment to innovation, efficiency, and operational excellence in project delivery.
