Rio Tinto has announced the opening of Western Australia’s newest airport Gudai-Darri iron ore project in the Pilbara where construction is progressing ahead of the expected production ramp-up in early 2022.

The facility can accept a range of different aircraft including Boeing 737’s, A320’s, F100’s and King Airs. The current flight schedule includes four flights a week with additional flights expected to be added to the schedule next year. The airport is expected to handle more than 600 workers in a day at peak operating times.

The airport will deliver significant benefits in terms of minimising employees interaction with vehicles and driving as well as helping to manage employee fatigue thanks to a significant reduction in travel time from an alternate regional airport. The airport will also provide a safer landing option for Rio Tinto’s long-standing partner the Royal Flying Doctor Service.