Brisbane Airport: The Latest Buzz And Travel Updates

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Brisbane Airport is currently undergoing construction works on the Domestic Terminal Security Upgrade Project, which has changed the way select airline passengers access check-in, bag drop, and security screening. In addition, the P2 Car Park Expansion is underway, aiming to provide 1,700 additional parking spaces. Brisbane Airport, the third-highest in domestic connections across Australia, is also preparing for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, with Qantas and Jetstar suspending flights from mid-afternoon on Thursday and announcing the cancellation of international flights until midday Saturday and domestic flights until Sunday morning.

Characteristics Values
Location On the edge of Moreton Bay, Brisbane, Australia
Year of Construction 1980
Year of Opening 1988
Owner Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC)
Major Shareholders as of January 2024 Queensland Investment Corporation, Igneo Infrastructure Partners, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, IFM Investors
Primary Hub For Virgin Australia
Major Hub For Qantas
Secondary Hub For Qantas' low-cost subsidiary Jetstar
Other Airlines Operating From Brisbane Airport Virgin Australia, Rex, Alliance, Link Airways, National Jet Express, Aerlink, QantasLink, JetGo
Facilities International and domestic passenger terminals, a cargo terminal, a general aviation terminal, two runways
Current Status Closed due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred

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Brisbane Airport is closing due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred

In preparation for the cyclone, airlines have cancelled many flights, and Brisbane Airport has suspended all flights into and out of the airport. Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Rex have all cancelled or suspended flights into the region. Virgin Australia operated on a limited schedule until 4 pm on Wednesday, which was expected to be the final scheduled airline service of the day. Qantas and Virgin have announced that Brisbane domestic flights are cancelled until at least Sunday.

The Brisbane City Council has advised that all CityCat and ferry services have been suspended, and bus services will be suspended from the last service on Wednesday until further notice. The council has also announced a plan to shelter the city's homeless people and is expected to update its live emergency dashboard with information on evacuation centres.

With the path and severity of Tropical Cyclone Alfred still uncertain, there is a potential for further disruptions and delays. Residents and travellers are advised to stay updated with the latest information and follow the instructions of local authorities.

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Qantas and Jetstar have suspended flights to and from Brisbane

Qantas and Jetstar have taken this precaution to ensure the safety of their customers and personnel. Qantas has advised customers to check their app, website, emails, and SMS for real-time flight status updates and changes to their travel arrangements. Qantas is also offering free flight rebooking for affected passengers scheduled to travel between March 7 and March 17, 2025, without additional fees, provided the origin and destination remain the same.

According to the initial announcement, Qantas and Jetstar flights to and from Brisbane were expected to be suspended until at least Sunday morning, March 10, 2025. However, subsequent updates provided more specific information regarding the timing of the suspensions. Jetstar flights to and from Brisbane were suspended from midday local time on Thursday until at least midday on Friday, while Qantas flights were suspended from mid-afternoon on Thursday until at least midday on Saturday for international operations and Sunday morning for domestic operations.

Customers are advised to regularly check the Qantas and Jetstar websites and their communication channels for the latest updates and rebooking options. Additionally, travelers can refer to official channels such as the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and the Queensland Government Disaster Management websites for emergency weather warnings and updates.

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Brisbane Airport is undergoing construction on the Domestic Terminal Security Upgrade Project

Brisbane Airport is currently undergoing construction as part of the Domestic Terminal Security Upgrade Project. This project is a part of the $5bn Future BNE investment programme, which aims to create new facilities and improve services at the airport. The busy domestic terminal, which serves 61 destinations and handled 16 million passengers in 2023, is expected to be safer and more efficient upon the completion of the project.

The construction works have changed the way passengers travel through the airport, particularly in the central area of the Domestic Terminal. The way passengers access check-in, bag drop, and security screening has been altered for select airline passengers. For instance, Qantas and QantasLink passengers can check in and drop off bags as usual, but they must now use the new temporary northern security screening point. Meanwhile, Jetstar passengers will use the new temporary check-in and bag-drop facility on the northern (Qantas) side of the terminal, also using the new temporary northern security screening point. Checked-in passengers will use the temporary security screening point at the southern end of the terminal, accessible via doors opposite baggage claim 7.

The Domestic Terminal Security Upgrade Project will provide a streamlined and simpler screening process for passengers. It includes significant upgrades to passenger and baggage screening equipment, aligning with government-mandated regulations. The new equipment will reduce hassle for passengers, as most items can remain in their carry-on luggage. Additionally, a new mezzanine level will be constructed above the existing central terminal area, creating a new central security screening point and accommodating new screening equipment. The existing escalators will be removed to make way for a new entrance, providing direct access from the Skywalk to the Domestic Terminal for checked-in passengers with carry-on baggage.

The upgrade project also has a focus on sustainability and aesthetics. It will feature sustainable and recyclable custom carpet inspired by Queensland's beaches, environmentally friendly spotted gum hardwood timber, and table and bench tops with high recycled content. The final stage of the redevelopment also includes dining upgrades, with the Virgin Australia end of the terminal offering additional food and beverage options, including a new bar and the largest-ever 360° restaurant at the airport.

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The airport has been recognised as having the Best Airport Staff in Australia and the Pacific

Brisbane Airport has been recognised as having the Best Airport Staff in Australia and the Pacific. This is the second time Brisbane Airport has received this award, the first being in 2021. The Skytrax World Airport Awards are regarded as the quality benchmark for the world airport industry, assessing customer service and facilities across over 565 airports worldwide. The 2025 Awards were based on the World Airport Survey, which was completed by over 100 nationalities of airport customers. The survey evaluates the customer experience across all front-line areas of airport service, including check-in, arrivals, transfers, shopping, security, and immigration through to departure at the gate. Staff at Brisbane Airport have been praised for their courtesy, attentiveness, and professionalism in daily operations.

Brisbane Airport is currently undergoing construction works on the Domestic Terminal Security Upgrade Project, which has changed the way select airline passengers access check-in, bag drop, and security screening. In addition, the airport has over $5 billion of investment planned as part of Future BNE, including major refurbishments to existing terminals and the expansion of the P2 Car Park, which will provide an additional 1,700 parking spaces.

The airport also offers a range of services and amenities to enhance the travel experience, such as the ability to order duty-free items online before travelling and providing tips to reduce security screening wait times. Brisbane Airport is committed to providing superior customer service to all its guests and offers assistance and feedback channels to ensure a seamless experience.

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The airport is built on the former Brisbane suburb of Cribb Island

Brisbane Airport has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a tiny aerodrome in Eagle Farm. In 2025, it celebrated 100 years of growth and development, becoming one of the world's best airports located on the edge of Moreton Bay. This transformation involved the expansion of the airport onto the former Brisbane suburb of Cribb Island.

Cribb Island, derived from John George Cribb, was once a vibrant community with a rich history. It was not truly an island but was surrounded by creeks, tidal flats, and mud flats, making it a popular fishing spot and a playground for local children. The area consisted of two parts: Cribb Island, featuring a beach facing Moreton Bay that attracted holidaymakers, and Jackson's Estate, used for farming and permanent residents. The entire area was approximately 5 kilometres long and 400 metres wide, built on a mud flat.

In the 1920s, Cribb Island and Jackson's Estate became a tourist destination and seaside resort area due to their proximity to Brisbane's town centre. The Cribb Island Post Office and kiosk opened in 1920, and the area even had its own bus service by 1925. The community had essential services, including a school, general store, and cafes. The suburb holds a special place in music history as the childhood home of the Gibb brothers, who later formed the Bee Gees.

However, in the 1970s, the Australian Government resumed the land on Cribb Island to expand the airport's capability to accommodate larger jets for international flights. This decision resulted in a gradual relocation of residents over the next decade. Construction for the new airport expansion began in 1980, and the last resident reluctantly left her home that same year. The runway and tower were commissioned for operation in May 1987.

Despite the physical changes, the memory of Cribb Island lives on. The Ibis Hotel at Brisbane Airport honours the lost suburb by naming its bistro the Cribb Island Beach Club and creating a gallery of historical photos. Former residents, like 82-year-old Betty Conway, remain connected to their roots through volunteer work and regular reunions, ensuring that the community spirit of Cribb Island continues to thrive even after its transformation into an integral part of Brisbane Airport.

Frequently asked questions

Brisbane Airport closed on Thursday 6 March 2025 due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Qantas and Jetstar suspended all international flights until midday on Saturday and domestic flights until Sunday morning.

Brisbane Airport was built on the former Brisbane residential suburb of Cribb Island and opened on 19 March 1988. The airport was constructed on swampland and has since expanded to include an international terminal, inaugurated in 1995. In 2025, Brisbane Airport celebrates 100 years of growth from a tiny aerodrome in Eagle Farm to one of the world's best airports.

Brisbane Airport is the primary hub for Virgin Australia, a major hub for Qantas, and a secondary hub for Jetstar. It is also home to maintenance facilities for Qantas and Virgin Australia.

All Qantas and Jetstar passengers will claim baggage on carousels 1-3 and should use the exit opposite Gate 23. Virgin, Alliance, Rex, National Jet Express, Aerlink, and Link Airways passengers will claim baggage on carousels 5-7 and should use the exit opposite Gate 39.

Passengers should prepare their carry-on baggage before arriving at the airport to reduce wait times. This includes being familiar with the rules around powders, liquids, aerosols, and gels, particularly for international flights. Checked-in passengers will use a temporary security screening point at the southern end of the terminal.

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