Machjet International officially opened its new multi-million-dollar hangar at Sunshine Coast Airport over the weekend, marking a major milestone for Queensland aviation.
The celebration, attended by guests from across the aviation industry, government and the local community, showcased the scale and versatility of the 4600sqm facility.
The facility 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 had the honour of officially declaring the facility open, cutting the ceremonial ribbon alongside Machjet managing director Simon McDermott and director John McDermott.
Guests 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. The highlight of the event was an aerobatic air show at sunset, featuring renowned Machjet pilot Emma McDonald performing alongside the legendary Sea Fury: a British propeller-driven fighter aircraft.
Simon McDermott says the official opening represents a proud moment for the McDermott family and a glimpse into the company’s future.
“This new facility marks a significant investment in the Australian aviation industry,” Mr McDermott says.
“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.
“Saturday’s celebration gave us the chance to share that achievement with our team, our partners and the community that’s supported Machjet for over two decades.”
Constructed to accommodate up to four Global Express aircraft or six Challenger 605s simultaneously, the hangar also includes extensive apron space, dedicated crew facilities and a premium executive lounge opening later this year.
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, further highlighting the hangar’s adaptability for large-scale functions and events.
“The Mayoral Ball will be a fitting continuation of what we started this weekend,” Mr McDermott says. “It’s an opportunity to show how this facility can contribute not only to aviation, but to the broader Sunshine Coast community.”
The official opening of Hangar 26 reinforces the region’s growing reputation as a hub for premium aviation services and sets the stage for continued growth leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
