Perth Airport is bracing for its busiest winter school holiday period on record, with up to 50,000 passengers forecast to pass through some days as Western Australians seek warmer destinations abroad. The holidaymakers will be among the first to experience a revitalised retail and hospitality precinct inside the international terminal’s departure lounge, featuring 14 new and refreshed food, beverage and retail outlets.
Local Flavours Take Centre Stage
The precinct boasts a stronger Western Australian identity, with new venues including Matso’s Brewhouse, WA Cellar, The.Social and Co + Co, alongside local retail concepts Discover Perth, Natural Collective and curi.o.city. Perth Airport chief commercial and aviation officer Kate Holsgrove said the upgrade enhances the traveller experience while larger projects, such as the multistorey car park, continue.
“We’re really making sure that we’re improving the airport experience whilst we’re also building and designing the future terminal,” Ms Holsgrove said.
Transformed Dining Precinct
Inside T1, the former seating area that once housed the Hay Market Pub and the old Singapore Airlines lounge has been transformed into a diverse dining precinct. “We’ve divided the space up a little bit differently so we’ve now got heaps more options for people,” Ms Holsgrove said. “Whether you’re heading to Bali or further overseas to Europe, there’s something for everyone.”
Record Passenger Numbers
Passenger numbers continue to climb, with Perth Airport recording a record 18.2 million passengers last year. Recent additions to the aviation network include direct Qantas services to Auckland and Johannesburg, year-round China Southern flights to Guangzhou, additional Bali services with TransNusa, and the return of daily Qatar Airways and Emirates services. “We’re seeing really strong appetite for international travel,” Ms Holsgrove said.
Long-Term Growth Plans
The airport expects continued growth over the coming decades, with long-term planning centred around accommodating about 30 million passengers annually by 2046. “Perth Airport will transform into a world-class airport that’s uniquely fit for Perth,” Ms Holsgrove said.
Travel Advice for Holiday Period
Ms Holsgrove warned travellers to allow extra time during the busy holiday period, recommending arrival at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures. “That gives you plenty of time to get through check-in and security, and then be able to relax and enjoy the retail before your flight,” she said.
Broader Investment Program
The retail refresh forms part of Perth Airport’s broader investment program, with the multi-level car park on track to open before Christmas. It will provide more than 1200 additional parking bays as well as expanded pick-up and drop-off areas. Construction is also progressing on Perth Airport’s new parallel runway, expected to be completed in 2028.
