By Oliver Clark

Logistics firm Australian air Express (AaE) has entered a partnership with Laucenston Airport to launch a $1.5 million programme to increase its freight handling capabilites at the gateway.

The long-term agreement includes development of enhanced facilities for improved freight processing, and handling and will, Launceston Airport claims, cement its position as the major, centrally located, freight facility for Tasmania.

"We are really pleased to be working with AaE on this significant development," said Launceston Airport's general manager, Pamela Graham.  "AaE and Launceston Airport have been partners for over 18 years and we are pleased to further solidify this great relationship."

The key focus of the redevelopment is to increase capacity and develop enhanced handling and processing space as well as additional equipment storage to allow for more efficient operations. The redevelopment will improve the overall customer experience with additional parking provided and new staff offices and amenities will also be a part of the project.

Construction will commence shortly with completion scheduled for mid 2011.