Cairns International Airport unveils artist renders of new terminal design

Cairns airport is about to get a fresh new look as its international terminal gets a multimillion-dollar revamp. See the artist impressions first here.

Lighting, materials, furnishing and greenery have been selected to reflect each the rich landscapes of FNQ, from the rainforest to the reef, coast and mangroves. Image: studiospillane

New escalators and state-of-the-art glass airbridges will form part of a $50m upgrade at Cairns Airport’s international terminal with works set to begin next month.

Artist impressions have revealed what the major redevelopment will include with the upgrades the first in more than 30 years.

Cairns Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said trades would be onsite from March with construction to begin early in April starting with the removal of the terminal’s distinctive blue carpet and replaced with modern tiles.

“The carpet has certainly been a talking point over the years and while it has served us well, it’s time for something new and fresh,” he said.

Passengers' arrival experience will be enhanced with new baggage reclaim belts and an expanded area to increase capacity. Image: studiospillane

“The terminal will be transformed into a contemporary space that reflects the dynamic atmosphere of our region, from the moment visitors arrive.

“It will be a space that locals can be proud of, using materials, imagery and design elements that showcase our unique environment and cultural values.

“We are planning a fun farewell to the famous blue carpet, and we are keen to get the community involved – watch this space.”

The first stage of the redevelopment will involve a complete refurbishment of the check-in and arrivals areas, including new escalators, elevators, bathrooms, fresh paint, artworks and furnishings.

The external facade of the terminal will also be recladded.

Four new, state-of-the art glass airbridges will be installed, giving passengers a panoramic view of the mountains and waterways as soon as they land.

The first raft of upgrades is expected to take about 14 months to complete and will generate up to 100 jobs during the construction phase.

The first stage of the redevelopment will involve a complete refurbishment of the check-in and arrivals areas. Image: studiospillane

The second stage will focus on improving passengers’ arrival experience, with new baggage reclaim belts and an expanded area to increase capacity.

The departures area will be overhauled during the third phase, with a new layout and seating spaces. Overall, $40-$50 million will be invested in the upgrade.

Mr Barker said the renewed terminal would integrate Traditional Custodians’ connection to country and prioritise local suppliers and sustainable practices such as reducing water use and waste, and increasing energy efficiency.

Image: studiospillane

“Lighting, materials, furnishing and greenery have been selected to reflect each of Far North Queensland’s rich landscapes in different areas of the terminal, from the rainforest to the reef, coast and mangroves,” he said.

Hutchinsons Builders have signed on to deliver the redevelopment, which will be rolled out in stages to minimise passenger disruption.

Image: studiospillane

Hutchinson Builders Team Leader Kyle Hare said: “This is an exciting project. The Cairns Airport international terminal is the gateway to our iconic region for tourists from overseas. As a local business, we are looking forward to contributing to the contemporary redevelopment of this important space, particularly as the Far North continues its recovery from the pandemic.”

Image: studiospillane

Originally published as Cairns International Airport unveils artist renders of new terminal design