Brisbane Airport unveils plans for international terminal transformation
The dramatically expanded duty-free area in Brisbane’s International Terminal showcasing local brands and innovative design in a space nearly double its original size
Brisbane Airport has announced a major overhaul of its International Terminal as part of the $5 billion future BNE transformation. The renovation, set to be the most significant since the terminal’s opening 29 years ago, aims to revolutionize the passenger experience and meet updated Australian Government security standards by 2025.
Key features of the renovation include relocating security and passport control from Level 3 to a light-filled atrium on Level 4, introducing advanced security screening equipment for faster processing, and implementing self-service check-in and bag drop systems. The project also involves upgrading baggage systems, expanding retail options, and nearly doubling the duty-free area.
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff emphasized the terminal’s importance, stating, “Our International Terminal is Queensland’s gateway to the world. After three decades of service, it’s well and truly time for a transformation, ensuring it’s ready to welcome the world for years to come. This building is worth billions of dollars to Queensland’s tourism economy and jobs every year.”
Self-service check-in kiosks and bag drop areas in the revamped Brisbane International Terminal designed to reduce queues and streamline the passenger journey
The security upgrade will feature new Computed Tomography (CT) screening equipment, allowing passengers to leave items like laptops in their bags during screening. This technology promises faster processing times and improved accuracy. The airport is installing 33 Rapiscan 920CT cabin baggage screening units, 10 Rapiscan RTT 110 checked baggage and oversize screening units, 41 Rapiscan 4DX Explosive Trade Detection units, and 33 Rohde & Schwarz Quick Personnel Security Body Scanners.
OSI Systems’ Chairman and CEO Deepak Chopra commented on the Rapiscan contract: “We are honored to be part of the biggest transformation in Brisbane Airport history and to strengthen our presence at international airports around the world. This transformative effort will have a significant and lasting impact on all passengers who travel through the airport, while increasing the standard of security for both passengers and employees.”
The new Level 3 after security relocates to the light-filled atrium on Level 4
The renovation also includes the introduction of self-service check-in kiosks and bag drop technology from Amadeus. Sarah Samuel, Senior Vice President APAC, Airport & Airline Operations at Amadeus, noted, “Brisbane is a great example of an airport with a long-term transformation strategy that places the traveler at the heart of the experience, and we are delighted to support it with our technology.”
Retail offerings will be refreshed with 31 premier retail opportunities, and the duty free area will nearly double in size. Lotte Duty Free, in a renewed 10-year partnership, will lead this expansion with a focus on local brands and sustainability. Steve Timms, Lotte Travel Retail Oceania CEO, stated, “There is nothing in the Brisbane store design that has similarity to any other place. It will be a bespoke design, capturing the flavor of Brisbane.”
Soon, security will relocate to the light-filled atrium on Level 4, providing passengers and workers with a brighter naturally-lit space reflecting the Queensland experience
Sustainability features include electric charging stations for aircraft support vehicles and the recycling of Brisbane tuff, a volcanic rock originally quarried from Kangaroo Point Cliffs, into terrazzo benchtops and furniture.
The project, divided into 20 construction phases to minimize disruption, is expected to conclude in 2027. In the 2024 fiscal year, the International Terminal welcomed 5.6 million passengers, a 39% increase from the previous year. New international routes are set to begin, including American Airlines flights to Dallas-Fort Worth and Delta Air Lines services to Los Angeles.
Planning for Terminal 3 is also underway, with a focus on integrating domestic and international passengers and incorporating sustainability and accessibility into the design.
