With the spring holidays just around the corner, Brisbane Airport is all set to witness a massive surge in passenger traffic. An estimated 1.65 million travelers are expected at the airport during this period. This is a sign of the increasing enthusiasm among Australians to travel post-pandemic.
The highest concentration of passengers is expected on Friday, 29 September. The airport expects to record the largest post-COVID passenger footfall at BNE, an impressive 70,000 people. Domestic travelers, in particular, should mark their calendars for Mondays and Fridays as the busiest days to travel. International travelers should expect crowded terminals on Saturdays.
Therapy Dogs: The Furry Stress Busters Return
Adding a touch of warmth and comfort, therapy dogs are returning to the Domestic Terminal. These furry friends originally trialed in July, were brought back owing to their overwhelming success in reducing pre-flight stress. “Returning them for school holidays was a no-brainer,” the airport spokesperson added. “The team had so many incredible interactions with people as the dogs provided an icebreaker.”
Exciting Activities Await at Both Terminals
Both terminals at Brisbane Airport are set to entertain with various activities during the school holidays. From winning instant prizes on the Spin & Win wheel to scavenger hunts and activity books for kids, there’s something for everyone. The International Terminal even offers movie sessions and craft activities, ensuring an entertaining pre-flight experience for families. Here are the details:
Domestic Terminal School Holiday Activities – Studio BNE
- Date – Monday 11 September to Monday 2 October, 7:30 am – 12:30 pm daily
- Where: Qantas Food Court & opposite Newstead Brewing Co
Try your luck on our Spin & Win wheel. You could win an instant prize or a voucher for purchases in one of the airport’s participating retailers. There is also a scavenger hunt for those who want to stay active and explore the terminal. If you are short on time, take one of our activity books to complete on your flight.
International Terminal School Holiday Activities – Studio BNE
- Date – Monday 11 September to Monday 2 October, 6 am – 11 am daily
- Where – Village Green, Level 3, after security
Sit back and enjoy a family movie in one of the airport’s soft, comfy chairs. Or, get crafty and design your very own canvas bag. International passengers can also join the Scavenger hunt, try the Spin & Win wheel, and pick up activity books for their flight.
Domestic Flights: Almost Back to Pre-Covid Levels
The Brisbane Airport’s Domestic Terminal will cater to about 1,287,000 passengers. That’s a 6% increase compared to last year, reaching 92% of pre-Covid levels. “The Domestic Terminal will be humming these school holidays as Aussies come for an early taste of Summer,” said Stephen Becket, Head of Public Affairs at Brisbane Airport. “While it will be busy if passengers arrive 90 minutes before their domestic flight, they will comfortably get away for their holidays stress-free.”
However, travelers should note that parking spaces are expected to be in high demand during the holidays. Booking parking spots online in advance is highly recommended, especially since more passengers now prefer driving over relying on ride-shares.
International Flights: A Strong Recovery
With a 40% surge in international passenger traffic compared to the Spring holidays in 2022, Brisbane’s International Terminal is preparing for around 366,000 passengers. Stephen Beckett noted the recovery’s continuous growth. This growth is primarily accredited to new international routes and the upcoming direct flights from mainland China.
For international flyers, arriving at the terminal 3 hours before flight time is recommended.
Interestingly, most international visitors are expected to hail from:
- New Zealand
- USA
- UK
- India
- Taiwan
Meanwhile, Queenslanders prefer traveling to New Zealand, Bali, the UK, Fiji, and the USA.
Growth in Numbers
Brisbane Airport has seen consistent growth in passenger traffic. While 2022 saw 1,474,000 passengers during the school holidays, 2023 expects a 12% rise, getting closer to the 2019 numbers.