The late 1970s and early 80s were a period of rapid growth at Albury airport, which benefited from expansion fuelled by the Albury-Wodonga National Growth Centre project. Upgrades to the runway were completed at this time to permit the operation of regional jet aircraft such as the Fokker F28. A control tower and new terminal were constructed and passenger numbers almost doubled between 1983 (82,000) and 1986 (160,000). The main carriers serving Albury at this time included East-West, Air NSW and Kendell Airlines. The airport funded further expansion with funds from landing and departure fees, levied at $1.50 per passenger.