By 2009, the main runway's Pavement Classification Number (PCN) had deteriorated to an 8, which stopped all heavy aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, from using the airport.

The idea was for the airport to accommodate medium-sized commercial jets as well as the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) aircraft.

The City of Whyalla lacks the funds to initiate an upgrade of the main runway and both the Australian and State Governments are reluctant to financially help out, regardless of which political party is in power.

On Wednesday, 17 September 2008, it was announced that the City of Whyalla were investigating spending over A$4 million on upgrading the airport to accept Boeing 737 aircraft.

Whyalla City Council announced on 30 January 2025 that they had successfully lobbied the state and federal governments for $30 million to upgrade the main runway.