In November 2024, the New Zealand Government announced plans to develop the airport as part of an overall Economic Plan for the Chatham Islands. A new passenger and administration terminal is also planned along with a larger apron area and a new large aircraft hangar. In the first week of October 2024, the airport welcomed its first jet aircraft after a 490m extension of its existing runway (extended from 1360m to 1850m and widened from 30m to the standard 45m) and strengthening work. A
Texel Air Boeing 737 BCF cargo plane landed at the airport, marking a new era for the community. The project was part of a $42m Government-funded project aimed at the island's connectivity and resilience and enhancing economic development opportunities. ==Airlines and destinations ==