The new undercover security carpark at Mackay Airport is now open for business.

Safety officer John Muckelstone positions a "now open" sticker on the undercover security carpark development sign near the entrance to the Mackay terminal.

The 67-bay carpark has lifted general parking to more than 600 spaces.

Mackay Airport general manager Trevor Heard said the undercover carpark was fully automated which enabled motorists to park and remove vehicles at their leisure.

Payment is made by credit card. The carpark currently accepts Mastercard, Visa and Bankcard with American Express and Diner’s Club coming on-line in the near future.

“The new undercover security carpark enables people to leave their cars in a secure facility out of the weather,” he said.

Fees range from $15 a day with discounts for long term parking.

Mr Heard said the MPA acknowledged the need to continue to improve and expand car parking facilities at the airport.

An additional 64 spaces were opened late last year as part of a $2 million carpark expansion program.

Mr Heard said planning was currently underway to further increase parking by 163 spaces. Work on the second stage upgrade was expected to complete by late 2005.

“It’s important we keep pace with the growing number of people taking advantage of budget-priced air fares,” he said.

“Last year more than half a million passenger passed through the Mackay Airport terminal. The airport is expected to process more than 560 000 passenger this financial year.”