Richmond. Commercial planes possible

The Rudd Government is expected to pave the way for the Richmond air force base to be opened up to commercial airline traffic when it releases its long-awaited aviation white paper next month, according to The Sydney Morning Herald. As part of the revamp of aviation policy, the blueprint will renew the search for a permanent site for a second Sydney airport after 63 years of political wrangling. The base is expected to be announced as a temporary solution while the Government intensifies its search for a permanent location. Richmond is capable of handling most long-haul aircraft and would suit low-cost airlines such as Jetstar and the Singapore Airlines-backed Tiger Airways. Hawkesbury Council has objected.