The confluence of footy finals and school holidays sets the stage for a record-breaking Friday for air travel at Brisbane Airport‘s Domestic Terminal. With fans pouring in from different parts of the country for the AFL, NRL, NRLW games, and the Australian Cup, Brisbane Airport is set to experience a travel surge like never before.
Key Facts:
- Post-pandemic record set to be broken with 59,571 people forecasted to pass through the Brisbane Airport Domestic Terminal.
- Last-minute bookings skyrocket for the footy feast featuring AFL, NRL, and NRLW.
- Suncorp Stadium and The Gabba to experience sell-out games.
- Passenger numbers between Melbourne and Brisbane and New Zealand and Brisbane see a significant uptick.
Factors Contributing to Brisbane Airport Travel Surge
School Holidays
The start of school holidays in New South Wales, ACT, NT, and WA has increased travelers. Families are taking advantage of the break to indulge in a sports extravaganza and an early taste of the Brisbane summer.
Footy Finals
The AFL Preliminary Final between the Brisbane Lions and Carlton at The Gabba has generated solid bookings between Melbourne and Sydney. Likewise, the NRL Preliminary Final at Suncorp Stadium between the Broncos and Warriors has significantly increased passenger traffic between New Zealand and Brisbane.
Regular Friday Traffic
Let’s not forget the regular Friday rush of FIFO (Fly-In, Fly-Out) workers and business passengers that adds to the usual foot traffic.
Breaking Down the Traveler Numbers
According to Stephen Beckett, Head of Public Affairs at Brisbane Airport:
- 59,571 people are forecast to travel through the Domestic Terminal, breaking last year’s post-pandemic record of 57,919 set on Easter Thursday.
- Flights between Melbourne and Brisbane are at 98% capacity, with 41 flights scheduled to accommodate 7305 passengers.
- On the New Zealand front, 10 flights with a capacity for 2136 passengers are running at 95% passenger load factors.
Practical Advice for Travelers from Brisbane Airport
Given the surge, passengers must arrive 90 minutes before their domestic flights and three hours before international flights. Considering the likely hangover from the big night at The Gabba and Suncorp Stadium, it’s essential not to leave the rush too late. Also, book your rideshares and taxis in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
When Brisbane is Busy Queensland is Busy
“BNE is humming as visitors come for the festival of footy and an early taste of Summer. And when Brisbane Airport is busy, Queensland is busy,” remarked Stephen Beckett.
As Brisbane enjoys a packed Friday, figures reflect a return to normalcy and the undying spirit of sports fans.