Your Complete Guide To Brisbane Airport
Australia’s third busiest airport after the two leading airports in Sydney and Melbourne, the Brisbane Airport, is the only passenger airport serving in the Queensland region. Home to over 32 international airlines and 46 domestic carriers, the Brisbane Airport is one of the busiest air routes for the Asia-Pacific region. Spread over 970 acres and handling 17.5 million passengers per year, the Brisbane International Airport is only 13 km away from the centre of city. In case this is your first time travelling to Australia or if you want convenience and comfort for your transportation, then you should make the most out of your travel experience and book an airport transfer service. Sedans, minibuses and coaches are common vehicles used for airport transfers. Not only will you travel comfortably and in style, but you can also be sure to arrive at your destination in a timely manner.
In case you plan to travel to Australia and will arrive in the Queensland region by plane, then here is what you should know about the Brisbane Airport.
Terminal information
The main air travel route for Queensland, the Brisbane Airport is a hub for both international and domestic carriers. The airport doesn’t enforce any curfew rules. It operates around the clock to receive millions of passengers arriving at departing via the international and domestic terminals. The Brisbane Airport has three terminals, all of which have been modified to cater for the Airbus A380.
The airport was recently renovated. Nowadays, getting to and fro the International, Domestic and Cargo terminals can be done via an inter-terminal train service. The trains are scheduled to depart from each of the terminals once every 15 minutes, so you don’t have to worry about missing a flight.
Facilities and shopping
As previously mentioned, the Brisbane Airport was given a facelift recently. Since 2008, the International terminal includes a modern check-in and arrival facilities, a brand new multi-tier parking lot, a few additional luggage carousels and in excess of 50 retailers. First-time travellers should check out the Visitor Information Service located at Arrivals L2 and learn more about how to book accommodations, bus or train tickets. Also, they should inquire about how to gain entry to the theme parks across Queensland.
If you’re in the mood for some shopping while waiting for your flight, then you might want to know that the specialty retailer stores can be found on level 3 of the International terminal. In case you’re taking a domestic flight, then note that most shops are situated on level 2.
Passengers who aren’t that passionate about shopping can pass the time by logging into the Optus Wireless Connect network. Regardless of whether you just want to browse the net or prepare for a business meeting, the airport provide you with top-of-the-line lounge facilities that include TV, wireless internet, desks and comfortable sofas. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the major retail areas in the Brisbane Airport, but do remember that you have a one-hour limit.
Overnight laws and accommodations
Unlike Sydney Airport, the Brisbane Airport doesn’t have restricted hours associated with the departure and arrival of flights. In case you need to catch a plane early the next day, it is highly recommended to make reservations at the only hotel located near the airport ahead of time.
The Novotel Brisbane Airport hotel is located in the Airport Village and offers on-site accommodations as well as shuttle services to and from the terminals. If you’re travelling to Queensland for business purposes, then the hotel also includes a modern conference centre with top notch equipment and amenities for all your company’s needs. If spending the night at the closest hotel to the airport is not an option, don’t fret. There are numerous other hotels and hostels with similar facilities and amenities nearby.
Eating and drinking
There are numerous bistros and cafes throughout the Brisbane Airport, so don’t worry if you forgot or couldn’t pack some snacks for your trip. While the Domestic terminal allows passengers to grab a quick bite to eat in the various snack bars and cafes, those interested in having a certain alcoholic beverage should head to the International Terminal. Then again, if you’re in the mood for a more sophisticated meal and time allows you, it is best to head down to the Airport Village and check out the restaurants there. The Airport Village is just a 10-minute ride away from the airport.
Transportation to Brisbane
Considering that the airport is only 13 km away from Brisbane’s business centre, it won’t take you more than 20 minutes to reach the city. To reach downtown Brisbane, passengers have several options at their disposal:
Taxi
If you’re in a hurry to get to Brisbane and forgot to make previous arrangements, then taking a taxi into town is your best bet. However, taxi services are relatively expensive, both compared to other transportation means and the fare practices in other major Australian cities.
Train or bus
Brisbane has a public transportation system and passengers who are not in a hurry should feel free to give it a try. You can find regular buses and trains from various locations in the airport. The main limitation is that if you have luggage, using public transport can be a headache.