Scheduled flights are now dependent on formal tender processes.
The tender for an X-ray machine has gone out already, with tenders for fencing and upgrades to the terminal building to be published by January at the latest.
According to official sources, the airport is on track equipment-wise.
Director of Economic Development, Ferdie Alberts said the major obstacle remained the fencing, an upgrade of which is a requirement of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
“The fencing around the airport is around five kilometres, so it’s a lot to do.”
In terms of the terminal building, Mr Alberts said an architect had already drawn up the specifications.
The CAA regulations, he added, were very stringent.
Asked when the objective of scheduled flights would become a reality, Mr Alberts said it was simply not possible this year.
“Possibly May, June or July next year. I would say mid-2016.”
As previously reported, Airlink cannot move forward with plans to establish scheduled flights, until Newcastle Airport meets the CAA standards.
It is apparent residents will have to wait just a little longer.
“This (flights) will be much more convenient and the deterioration of roads between here and OR Tambo International is a marketing point. Flights will be safer, more convenient and eliminate the need for vehicle park-overs,” officials said in October.
