Camooweal Airport is located northeast of Camooweal, Queensland, Australia. The airport is operated by the Mount Isa City Council and is mainly used by the Royal Flying Doctor Service to support the operation of weekly medical clinics for the Camooweal community. The airport also functions as a base to land supplies and perform evacuations during emergencies such as flooding.
History
The discussions of Camooweal as a stop in an air route towards England from Melbourne began in August 1919. The chain was to include Longreach, Camooweal, Alexandria, Brunette Downs, eventually joining Newcastle Downs. An alternative route was also discussed, although it excluded the town. In November 1925, the aerodrome was inspected by three airport inspectors, with the prospects of bringing it up to Qantas standards. Afterwards, they continued onwards to Darwin. Following the works, Qantas opened a passenger service between Cloncurry and Camooweal in 1926.
The first airmail service began here in 1930. During World War II, the Royal Australian Air Force extended and sealed the runway for use as a refuelling point and emergency landing ground. Presently, the Royal Flying Doctor Service operates at Camooweal Airport.
Facilities Aside from the sealed runway 13/31 which is and a small apron area, there are minimal facilities at the airport. Solar powered lighting for the runway and apron areas is available for emergencies at night. Arriving and departing aircraft coordinate movements using a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency as there is no control tower at the isolated airstrip. A Non-Directional Beacon navigational aid is located close to the airport.
See also List of airports in Queensland
References