Albany Mayor Milton Evans said that as the gateway to the region, the airport was central to the future of Albany and the region’s tourism.

“It’s important to create a better image for our travellers,” Mr Evans said.

“Tourism promotion of the region is paramount. That’s why we have done a complete facelift here.”

Renovations inside the John Bell Terminal, constructed in 1988 and extended in 1998, include repainting, new carpet and furniture and a newly-leased cafe.

A new-look exterior on the arrivals side has ensured a more welcoming impression of the region.

Mr Evans said travellers were now welcomed by a completely revamped entry where ‘amazingalbany’ signs and landscaping with polished, engraved local stones created a more vibrant aspect.

“It’s a definite turn the right way up for Albany tourism,” Mr Evans said.

“When the Esplanade gets up, and that is a definite, we will have many visitors arriving here.”

Importantly, the cost has not been passed on to ratepayers, he said.

Instead, it had been met from the profit of the airport’s operation as a separate business entity.

Trying to make a profit at the cafe has been handed to lessee Debbie Cross, owner of Life’s A Beach Cafe.

Runway Cafe will provide freshly made food and coffee and will operate before and during each of the 20 arrivals and departures by Skywest.

It will also cater for charter flights.

The City recently received funding to seal the secondary runway.

This is expected to provide better conditions for aircraft trying to land and take off in inclement weather and cross-winds.

The City received $240,000 under the Regional Airports Development Scheme to undertake the work which is expected to cost around $460,000.

City Services Manager Ian Neil said the work should start in the new calendar year.