Construction begins on RFDS aviation training facility

Representatives from RFDS (Queensland Section), QCoal Foundation, Australian Government and Bundaberg Regional Council gathered at the site where a new $25 million aviation training facility in Bundaberg will be built, to mark the beginning of construction.

It will be next to the existing RDFS Bundaberg Base and house the only Beechcraft King Air Pro Line Fusion Full-Flight Simulator (FFS) in Australia.

RFDS (Queensland Section) CEO Meredith Staib said: “I’m incredibly excited to see work commence on our new Aviation Training Facility, which will help support the ongoing training of our highly skilled pilots, as well as pilots from across Australia and Asia.”

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2023. Once built, RFDS pilots in Queensland will spend two weeks minimum at the facility per year, and non-RFDS pilots will be able to use the simulator for endorsements or recurring training for King Air aircraft.

“This purpose-built facility will play a vital role as we head towards 100 years of the Flying Doctor, with innovative aviation and training technology on our doorstep, helping to ensure the continuity of world-class training for our pilots and crew – allowing them to continue to provide the finest care to patients right across Queensland,” said Staib.

Investment for innovation

The facility will cost $25.3 million. It has been jointly funded, with the Australian government providing $14.9 million and QCoal Foundation giving $3 million to the cause. The land was donated by Bundaberg Regional Council. RFDS will fundraise to pay for the rest of the project.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said: “The Australian government is proud to be contributing nearly $15 million to make this critical project a reality. This will support the essential medical services of the RFDS by providing a world-class facility for training their pilots.

“It will also deliver a broader economic boost to Bundaberg and surrounds by supporting local jobs and attracting these pilots to visit, stay and shop in the region, while strengthening our domestic medical aviation capacity.”    

The RFDS has upgraded its Beechcraft King Air B360, which now houses a flying intensive care unit.