WHILE Mackay's regional economy is set to soar, with a $900 million airport upgrade, it could be a while before Rockhampton is on the same plane.

But Rockhampton councillor Neil Fisher (pictured) is guaranteeing Rockhampton Regional Council will continue to put forward its best business case to try to secure state and federal government funding for an airport upgrade.

Cr Fisher said Rockhampton Airport had the potential to grow, with parcels of neighbouring land blocks available to expand its operations.

He said the council would continue to look for long-term business partnerships to strengthen its case for an airport expansion.

Rockhampton was a prime contender to become an agricultural depot to export Central Queensland beef to overseas markets and serve the proposed Queensland "food bowl".

"The council's long-term investments at the airport will be assessed on the evolving nature of the local and emerging economy," Cr Fisher said.

"Rockhampton has maintained strong links to primary production, and our diversified economy, which includes a significant agricultural element, has stood the Rockhampton region in good stead for the past year.

"Our economy is far stronger than surrounding economies, which have become intertwined with the resources sector."

Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said no funding had yet been allocated for an airport expansion.

She said the ouncil had to do a bit more work to strengthen their case for an airport upgrade.