Kangaroo Island now has an airport worthy of its magnificent attractions and status as one of the four icons of Australian tourism.

The new $18 million Kangaroo Island Airport was opened officially today by the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and the Premier of South Australia Steven Marshall and is the culmination of several years of work and collaboration between local, State and Federal governments.

The business case for the new airport was made by the Kangaroo Island Council and attracted equal parts funding from the State Government and the Federal Government in recognition of the Island’s importance on the national and world stages.

Its state-of-the-art design and commitment to a low carbon footprint reflects the Brand Values of Kangaroo Island and like all great airports, it is so much more than a transit lounge.

Brand images and themes, plus works from local Island artists create interest and transform the light and spacious interior into a gallery – a visitor’s first glimpse of the natural wonders of the Island and how locals have been inspired by their Island home to create unique interpretations in various media.

Kangaroo Island Mayor Peter Clements said the announcement of the new airport had been the catalyst for Qantas to launch flights to the Island to supplement the daily Regional Express services already operating.

“Now the new airport is open we are optimistic Qantas can make further commitments to expand its schedule and other airlines will see the benefits of direct flights.

“The sense of arrival is simply awesome for everyone who travels to the Island and we can now meet the expectations of international travellers with a professional service and all the conveniences they expect,” Mr Clements said.