AKL Master Plan 2026 frequently asked questions:

What is an airport Master Plan?

An airport Master Plan is a long-term planning document that guides how airport infrastructure could be developed over time in a coordinated, efficient way. It helps to protect the land needed for future projects that may be required to meet growing demand or respond to innovation.

What is the purpose of a Master plan?

The Master Plan ensures space is safeguarded for potential development. It helps avoid development being built in ways that might limit future opportunities.

Are there set rules for airport Master Plans?

No. Each plan is tailored to the unique needs and context of the airport it serves. 

Does the Master Plan specify exactly what will be built?

No. The Master Plan doesn’t lock in any specific development. Instead, it acts as a framework to guide decisions as individual developments are considered.

How often is the Master Plan reviewed?

Typically, airport Master Plans are reviewed every 5 to 10 years.

Why does AKL need a new Master Plan?

Our Master Plan sets the direction for how Auckland Airport could evolve in the long term. It provides a long-term view to help guide investment decisions and shape how the airport grows over the next 30 years.

How is the 2026 Master Plan different to the 2014 Master Plan?

The 2026 Master Plan builds on the foundation of the 2014 plan, but also reflects changes in customer expectations, technology, climate resilience and the growing needs of Auckland and New Zealand.

It still focuses on key priorities like terminal integration, a northern runway and a future mass rapid transport corridor while also adding a stronger emphasis on sustainability, innovation and community wellbeing.

Does the plan include expanding noise boundaries? 

No. Our activities are governed by the Auckland Unitary Plan, which sets noise limits through noise contours. These already allow for both the current operations and the future northern runway.

How does the Master Plan address climate risk?

We’ve analysed a range of future climate scenarios to understand potential risks. This has shaped the Master Plan, especially in prioritising upgrades to stormwater infrastructure. We’re keeping flexibility in our land use so we can adapt over time as conditions change. 

Will passenger numbers grow?  

Yes. Forecasts show passenger numbers increasing from around 18.6 million in 2024 to about 38 million a year by the late 2040s.

How are future aircraft trends considered? 

We analyse airline fleet plans, aviation data and industry trends to anticipate future aircraft types and volumes. This ensures the airport can support next-generation aircraft and changing travel demand through its operations and infrastructure.

What does “surface access” mean?

Surface access refers to the ways people get to and from the airport, including roads, parking, pick-up and drop-off areas, public transport, walking paths and cycling infrastructure.

How will surface access be improved? 

We’re proposing upgrades across the airport’s road network, such as new signage, improved traffic signal, realigned roads and better road markings. We’ll also continue working with key partners and stakeholders to introduce and improve cycling and walking connections.

How will the airport support sustainable transport?  

The Master Plan promotes walking, cycling and public transport as alternatives to private vehicles. These options help reduce emissions and support more sustainable travel. 

How will congestion be managed?

a) During construction:

We’ll plan works to avoid peak travel times where possible such as doing work at night or outside school holidays. We’ll also manage construction traffic to reduce impacts on travellers.

b) Over the long term:

As passenger numbers grow, more vehicles will use airport roads. The Master Plan includes improvements to keep traffic moving, such as better signals, signage and road layout changes. 

Are more car parks being added?

Some existing car parks will be reconfigured, for example, relocating Park & Ride North to make space for the future northern runway. We’ll also make improvements to signage, access and drainage to make better use of the car parks we already have. 

How is the airport planning for new technology?

We’re exploring ways technology can improve efficiency, operations and customer experience through automation, digital tools and smart infrastructure.

What role could artificial intelligence and automation play?

We’re looking at how AI and automation can improve things like flight planning, passenger flow, airfield operations and customer service. The goal is to make airport operations more efficient, secure and seamless.

Will Auckland Airport build a second runway? 

Based on a recent study, a second runway will be required in the early 2040s if the current mode of operations continues.