Sunshine Coast Airport has unveiled a first look at its new arrivals precinct and baggage claim area as work continues on the airport’s $170 million terminal redevelopment project.
The new facilities are nearing completion and form a key part of the airport’s broader expansion plans, which aim to increase capacity, improve passenger flow and support future growth across the Sunshine Coast region.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills said construction had reached an important milestone, with structural works now complete on both the baggage claim area and the new landside café, Trader and Co.
Arrivals precinct takes shape
The arrivals precinct and baggage claim buildings have progressed significantly since construction began in December 2025, with exterior cladding and interior fit-outs scheduled as the next phase of works.
Mills said the project was beginning to demonstrate the scale of the transformation planned for the airport.
“The arrivals precinct and baggage claim will be completed later this year, with construction commencing soon for the airport’s new boarding gates and the retail, food and beverage areas within the terminal,” he said.
The redevelopment follows the completion of the airport’s new outbound baggage facility earlier this year and complements the recently released retail, commercial and industrial development opportunities within the Gateway Precinct.
Capacity boost supports future growth
Once complete in 2027, the terminal footprint will almost double from 6,100sqm to 11,750sqm, while the domestic departure lounge will expand from 1,250sqm to 3,750sqm.
The airport will also increase departure gates from five to seven, providing a 40 per cent boost in airline capacity, alongside the introduction of self-service kiosks and automated bag drop technology.
Sunshine Coast Airport expects to welcome more than 1.8 million passengers during FY26, with forecasts indicating passenger numbers will reach 2.4 million annually by 2030.
Sydney and Melbourne remain the airport’s largest markets, accounting for 88 per cent of all airline seats and around 240 weekly flights during peak holiday periods.
Sustainability embedded in redevelopment
The redevelopment incorporates a range of sustainability initiatives, including mass timber construction, rainwater harvesting, expanded solar infrastructure, energy-efficient HVAC systems and climate-responsive design principles.
McNab CEO Kunjan Ganatra said the project remained on schedule, with strong collaboration between the airport, airline partners and project stakeholders helping drive progress.
More than 2,500 construction workers are expected to contribute directly to the redevelopment project throughout its delivery.
The upgraded terminal is expected to play a significant role in supporting the region’s visitor economy and long-term aviation growth.
