New arrivals precinct opens at Sunshine Coast Airport

Visitors and residents arriving on the Sunshine Coast are now being welcomed through a modern new arrivals precinct and baggage claim area, marking another milestone in the transformation of Sunshine Coast Airport. 

Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the airport played an important role in connecting the region with visitors, residents and businesses.

“The transformation of Sunshine Coast Airport is helping to create a facility that reflects the growth and ambition of our region," Mayor Natoli said.

“We know that a modern, well-connected airport is vital to supporting our local economy, attracting visitors and creating opportunities for businesses and the wider community.

"It also shows our region is continuing to mature as a destination, with facilities that match our reputation as one of Australia's most desirable places to live, work and visit."

The new arrivals precinct includes a modern baggage claim hall almost three times larger than the previous facility, featuring a 92-metre baggage carousel, upgraded amenities, additional seating and a new water-cooling system servicing the terminal. 

Sunshine Coast Airport CEO, Chris Mills said the opening was an important step in the terminal transformation and would deliver an improved experience for passengers.

“The new arrivals precinct and baggage claim is another significant milestone in the transformation of Sunshine Coast Airport," he said.

“Passengers arriving on the Sunshine Coast will now collect their bags in a modern, purpose-built space almost three times the size of our former arrivals and baggage claim area.

“The longer carousel provides more room for passengers to comfortably collect their luggage, while allowing more bags to be delivered at any one time, creating a smoother and more efficient arrival experience.”

Around 20,000 passengers arrive through Sunshine Coast Airport each week, with passenger numbers continuing to grow as the region strengthens its connections to key domestic and international destinations. 

The new arrivals precinct forms part of the airport's broader $170 million terminal redevelopment, which will almost double the terminal footprint and increase passenger capacity to support future growth. The full terminal expansion is expected to be completed in 2027. 

Did you know?

• Around 1.8 million passengers travelled through Sunshine Coast Airport in FY26. 
• Passenger numbers are forecast to reach 2.4 million by 2030.
• The terminal footprint will grow from 6,100m² to 11,750m². 
• The departure lounge will triple in size. 
• Departure gates will increase from five to seven.
• Check-in new technology: 18 self-service kiosks and 10 automatic bag drops.
• Sustainability features: mass timber, rainwater harvesting, expanded solar panels, energy-efficient Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), climate-sensitive design.