Opened March 19, 1988 by Prime Minister Bob Hawke, the airport was established to replace the existing terminals at Eagle Farm, which had been used since 1925 but were by then inadequate for a city the size of Brisbane.

New era

In February 1971 a joint committee featuring members of the Australian government, the Queensland Government, and the Brisbane City Council recommended the construction of a new airport 5km north.

About 60 homes were resumed, including nearly all of Cribb Island, the famous childhood home of music stars the Bee Gees.

On June 5, 1980 the first sod turning in the construction was done by Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser, with the airport expected to cost $300 million once finished in 1986 (the final cost was $425 million).

On November 30, 1987 the first commercial departure – a Qantas Boeing 747-238B with 410 passengers – left heading for Hong Kong.

The timing was perfect ahead of the looming 1988 Expo coming to the city.

More information: Brisbane Airport Corporation

The path ahead

In September 2024 work started on a massive upgrade of Brisbane Airport’s international terminal, including major changes to passenger processing, refurbished retail outlets and a doubled duty free store, as part of a $5bn investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics.

In the biggest transformation since the terminal opened, security screening and passport control will be moved from the windowless third floor to the level-four atrium to accommodate new hi-tech screening equipment, allowing travellers to leave items such as laptops in their bags.

The dramatic overhaul was partly driven by the need to upgrade security screening equipment by the end of 2025 to meet federal standards.

Meanwhile, planning for a third terminal to integrate domestic and international passengers was underway and was expected to open just before the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics.

Celebs and big moments

From the arrival of royalty to scandals, and from triumphant Olympic returns to tragic family sagas, Brisbane Airport has been home to a variety of big moments across the years.

There was the drama that surrounded Christopher Skase as the businessman’s empire collapsed in the 1990s.

There have also been inspiring moments when the airport has seen those in need make emergency landings.

On the lighter side, sports stars and international celebrities have been common.

While the changing face of the airport itself – or at least plans to change – have drawn endless comments and debate.

See below all the dramatic, wild and memorable photos over the years >>>