THE arrival of Air Force One for George W. Bush's 2003 presidential visit damaged the main runway of Canberra airport, prompting a $28.5 million (Australian) taxpayer-funded overhaul.
Air Force One, which has a maximum takeoff weight of about 375,000kg, ferried Mr Bush to Australia for a 21-hour visit after John Howard backed the war in Iraq.
A budget estimates committee heard yesterday that Canberra International Airport had raised its concerns about the impact of Air Force One on the runway with the Government ahead of the US President's arrival.
Transport Department deputy secretary Mike Mrdak said the Government struck a deal with the airport, agreeing to pay for any tarmac damage.
He said the Government was funding the strengthening of the tarmac because there was no commercial incentive to do so.
The strengthening is expected to be completed before next year's Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation forum in Australia.
Transport Minister Warren Truss announced $28.5million funding in the budget for Canberra International to strengthen the main runway to ensure VIPs and dignitaries direct access.
Further maintenance and upgrades of the runway would be paid for by Canberra International, a spokeswoman for Mr Truss said yesterday.
The 2003 presidential visit was not the sole cause of damage to the runway, she added.
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