A multimillion-dollar hangar has officially opened at Sunshine Coast Airport, marking a major boost for the region’s aviation sector.
Leading charter operator Machjet International unveiled the largest hangar at the airport with a ceremony including an airshow at sunset.
The celebration – attended by guests from across the aviation industry, government and the local community – showcased the scale and versatility of the 4600sqm facility, which has been purpose-built to accommodate some of the world’s largest private aircraft and support a growing range of aviation operations.
Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli declared the facility open, alongside Machjet managing director Simon McDermott and director John McDermott.
Simon McDermott said the opening of Hangar 26 represented a proud moment for his family and a glimpse into the company’s future.
“This new facility marks a significant investment in the Australian aviation industry,” he said.
“It reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening regional connectivity, supporting skilled aviation jobs and enhancing the standards of premium air charter operations across the country.
“This hangar was designed to serve multiple purposes, from housing long-range executive jets to supporting critical operations like aeromedical retrievals and urgent cargo transfers.
Constructed to accommodate up to four Global Express aircraft or six Challenger 605s, the hangar also includes extensive apron space, dedicated crew facilities and a premium executive lounge that will open later this year.
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Demonstrating its flexibility beyond aviation operations, Hangar 26 will soon play host to one of Queensland’s most prestigious community events – the SunnyKids Mayoral Ball – on Saturday, October 25. The black-tie gala will see part of the vast space transformed into a luxury venue for up to 1000 guests.
“The Mayoral Ball will be a fitting continuation of what we started this weekend,” Mr McDermott said.
“It’s an opportunity to show how this facility can contribute not only to aviation but to the broader Sunshine Coast community.”
Guests at the opening enjoyed an afternoon and evening of aviation and entertainment, featuring static aircraft displays from Bombardier, Cessna, Dassault and Machjet’s own fleet, including the rare Transall C160.
A highlight was an aerobatic airshow at sunset featuring renowned Machjet pilot Emma McDonald performing alongside the legendary Sea Fury.
Machjet International is a leading fixed-wing charter operator delivering specialist air services around the world.
Part of the McDermott Aviation Group, Australia’s largest privately owned aviation company, Machjet operates a fleet of 13 aircraft from its 24-hour fixed-base operations at Sunshine Coast and Cairns airports. Services include executive jet travel, aeromedical retrievals, urgent cargo transport, and government operations.
