Downer resurfaced the remote Christmas Island Airport runway, 2,600 km from Perth, to replace the existing spray-seal with a more durable two-layer micro-surfacing that met commercial jet standards.
The runway was operational again within 24 hours – testament to Downer’s strong project management capabilities.
In 2025, Downer received the ISSA Preservation Award for this resurfacing. The award was in recognition of the outstanding durability and performance of Micro-Surfacing installed, which continues to exceed expectations a decade after installation. This project and award highlight how micro-surfacing delivers long-term durability, operational efficiency, and technical precision, in even the most challenging remote environments.
Discover more View all
North and South Canterbury Network Outcomes Contracts
How Downer kept Canterbury’s State Highways moving Overview For around...
Read case study
North Canterbury Transport Infrastructure Recovery
Reconnecting communities after the Kaikōura earthquake Overview Following the 7.8-magnitude...
Read case study
Stronger Christchurch Infrastructure Rebuild Team (SCIRT)
Rebuilding the foundations of a city Overview Following the Canterbury...
Read case study