Community
28 March, 2025
Airport’s flying higher
AS international passenger figures head for a 17-year high, Cairns Airport is putting the final touches to its $55 million international terminal upgrade.
More flights and overseas travellers bode well for the Far North Queensland tourism industry which is slowly returning to its hey-days.
Key are Fiji Airways from Nadi with direct links to North America as well as New Zealanders on Jetstar services from Christchurch – both starting in April.
Main features of the international terminal upgrade include:
One of two large new baggage belts began operating last week, providing a lot more space for arriving luggage and faster collection by passengers
A new airport lounge, operated by Escape Lounges, offers premium facilities and free dining. It is also available for any traveller regardless of airline or ticket class for a fee.
Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said the improvements were timely and came as international passenger figures track toward 760,000 for this financial year, a number not seen since 2008.
“We’re just weeks away from welcoming two new international routes – Jetstar’s direct flights from Christchurch and Fiji Airways’ services to Nadi. These year-round services will inject a combined 125,000 seats into the market each year,” he said.
“We are also heading into the busy Easter school holiday period and the commencement of Air New Zealand’s annual seasonal service from Auckland.
“We expect to see visitors extending their stay in Tropical North Queensland during April and May, with Easter happening so close to the Anzac Day long weekend. Significant international conferences are also scheduled in Cairns during the coming months, which will bring thousands of business travellers to the region.
“The new Escape Lounge will be a welcome addition for those visitors.
“Cairns Airport is installing two new baggage reclaim belts in the international terminal and each belt will effectively double the number of items that can flow out to passengers after they arrive. Having the first one now in operation is fantastic, particularly as visitor numbers grow.”
The terminal upgrade is due for completion at the end of 2025. The final construction phase includes installation of the second baggage belt, refurbishment of the departures area with new flooring and seating, remodelled bathrooms and dining and retail enhancements. They are expected to be completed by Christmas.
The first stage, completed last year, included an overhaul of the check-in and arrivals areas with new flooring, escalators and elevators, replacement of check-in and hire car counters and installation of four glass airbridges.
