The Massey University Flight Operations Centre is the main base for the Bachelor of Aviation programme in New Zealand. Established in 1987 to meet airline requirements for graduates with a wide industry perspective, the school offers New Zealand’s only Aviation degree. A brand new 2,200m2 / 23,681sqft training centre was recently completed by Colspec Construction, offering a state-of-the-art space to support the growing number of students admitted to the school.
Palmerston North Airport chief executive David Lanham says the new development will support the school’s reputation as being a world-class aviation training programme. “The new $5m facility will assist the school to further promote its capabilities to an international audience. The timing is perfect as the demand for pilot and aviation management training continues to grow.”
Glen Hamilton from Nexus architecture – understanding the importance of adaptive learning – designed the central, open-plan communal space for students to gather and collaborate. However, as with all large share spaces, the acoustic concerns needed to be addressed. In this case, the floor provided the perfect opportunity for acoustic treatment. Acoufelt’s range of acoustic carpet tiles provided a smart alternative to traditional floor coverings, also complementing the vibrant furnishings of the interior. The ‘Flinders’ collection in colorway ‘Ikara Place’ was selected for its seamless pattern and neutral textures, installed in a monolithic pattern throughout the open area. Boasting an NRC 0.35, this carpet tile was able to provide excellent acoustic performance in this spacious open-plan environment.
