Brisbane Airport has cut the ribbon on its upgraded international terminal which features a new departures lounge, increased signage, more shops and, importantly for aviation enthusiasts, improved views of the airfield.
The terminal was officially opened by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss on Wednesday.
Brisbane Airport chief executive Julieanne Alroe said the 18-month, $45 million redevelopment work was completed on time and on budget without any disruption to passengers or operations.
“Everyone associated with the project from the architects and designers, contractors, retailers, project managers, operations team and tenants are to be commended. Not one detail has been overlooked and the result is outstanding,” Alroe said in a statement.
The terminal has been recognised by Queensland Property Council with an excellence in design award, Brisbane Airport said.
While the major terminal work has been completed, there is still ongoing building activity in the international terminal, with new Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines lounges due to be completed in early 2016. The airport is also feature a new pay-in lounge and day spa facility to be operated by Plaza Premium.
“This really is an exceptionally exciting growth phase for Brisbane Airport and these ongoing improvements will enable us to accommodate more passengers, offer a wider choice of routes and carriers and make greater economic contributions to our city and state,” Alroe said.
There is now 4,600 square metres of additional floor space in the international terminal following the redevelopment, which was mostly carried out late at night or during off-peak periods to ensure minimal disruption to passengers that passed through the facility over the 18-month construction period.