When Gold Coast Airport’s new terminal will open
Hundreds of people spent hours at Gold Coast Airport today going through check-in and security – and flying absolutely nowhere. Here’s why
Gold Coast
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ABOUT five hundred people never got off the ground on Tuesday despite spending hours at Gold Coast Airport collecting boarding cards and passing through check-in and security.
The aviation enthusiasts were all volunteers who had signed up to test facilities at the airport’s flash new $500 million terminal expansion ahead of its opening to domestic travellers next week.
Queensland Airports Limited COO Marion Charlton said the trial had been a huge success, with airport bosses getting valuable feedback from participants.
“This was a very exciting day for the airport,” Ms Charlton said.
“Today we got to see the airport through other people’s eyes, which was very interesting for us.
“What I loved was people’s reaction to the facility. You could really see people stop and say ‘wow’.
“Now it’s all systems go for domestic next week.”
The three-level, 30,000sq m terminal expansion doubles the terminal footprint and includes four glass aerobridges, additional retail space, new boarding facilities, a departure lounge, baggage handling and border control facilities.
Evie Smith from Oxenford, who was among those to take part in the trial, said she was impressed by what she saw.
“We loved it,” she said. “It was such an amazing experience.
“I think definitely it’s an upgrade. There are lots of new facilities and it’s very spacious – you don’t feel like you’re packed in like sardines like in other airports.”
Queensland Airports CEO Amelia Evans said the team had received valuable feedback during today’s trial.
“Everyone’s done a great job. It’s a beautiful terminal,” Ms Evans said.
“We honestly needed the feedback and there were a few things that we got out of it.
“But it’s been smooth. The amount of effort that the team has put in has really paid off.”
Students from Gold Coast TAFE, members of Gold Coast Airport’s plane spotting community, airport ambassadors and airport stakeholders were among the volunteers at the trial, which lasted for five hours.
Participants enjoyed live music and received lunch and ‘thank you’ gifts.
The Gold Coast Airport terminal expansion will open for domestic services next Tuesday and to international services in October.
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