Griffith City Council will soon implement a new paid parking system at Griffith Regional Airport, using advanced licence plate recognition technology to address growing congestion and safety concerns.

The system will utilise Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, eliminating the need for paper tickets. Instead, number plates will be automatically scanned on entry and exit, with drivers making payment by card.

Griffith Mayor Councillor Doug Curran said the new system was necessary to respond to increased demand at the airport car park, which has been operating well above capacity.

"On a typical weekday morning, more than 230 vehicles are parked at the aerodrome, well above the 158 spaces formally available to the public," Mayor Curran said.

"Cars overstaying, unmarked parking and lack of distinction between short and long-term parking have led to congestion and safety concerns."

The new paid parking system is designed to address multiple issues. It will differentiate between short and long-term parking, improve safety for both drivers and pedestrians, provide a smoother entry and exit experience, and generate funds for future improvements at the airport.

Council has appointed SKIDATA to supply and install the new system. The design has been configured to allow for expansion in future if needed, providing flexibility as airport usage continues to grow.

The project also includes roadway modifications at the airport entrance to accommodate the new system and improve traffic flow.

Parking fees have not yet been determined. The fee structure will be considered at a future Airport Committee Meeting before a recommendation is presented to Council for adoption.

The new paid parking system is expected to be operational within the current financial year.

The introduction of paid parking represents a significant change for Griffith Regional Airport users, who have previously enjoyed free parking at the facility. However, Council has indicated the revenue generated will be reinvested in airport improvements.

The LPR technology offers a contactless, streamlined parking experience that has become increasingly common at airports across Australia. The system automatically captures number plates, calculates parking duration and processes payments without requiring physical tickets or barriers that can cause delays.

For travellers, the new system should reduce the frustration of arriving at the airport to find all available spaces occupied by vehicles that have exceeded their intended parking duration.

The distinction between short and long-term parking will also benefit those simply dropping off or collecting passengers, who currently compete for spaces with travellers leaving vehicles for extended periods.