Sunshine Coast Airport has revealed the first look at its $170 million terminal redevelopment.
The project will almost double the size of the terminal, increase departure gates from five to seven, and triple the departure lounge footprint.
Construction company McNab has been appointed as the builder, global architects firm Populous | Fentress Studios are designing the terminal and Planned Performance are the project managers.
The redevelopment is expected to meet future demand, improve efficiency and enhance the travel experience for locals and visitors.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills said the airport was commitment to deliver world-class outcomes for the region.
“The Terminal Redevelopment Project is a major milestone in the airport’s expansion with approximately $170 million being invested to support the future of our airport and our region,” he said.
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Mr Mills said the redevelopment will support local jobs, boost the economy, and strengthen the Sunshine Coast’s role as a tourism and business gateway.
“Importantly, this project has been shaped by community input, so the terminal reflects local needs and expectations with their insights directly influencing key design features, amenities, and the overall experience,” he said.
“From the look and feel of the terminal to how we welcome and serve travellers, locals helped shape more than just a space, they helped shape a better journey for everyone.
“The redevelopment will also incorporate expanded retail and food offerings, latest technology for check-in and security, as well as sustainable design features building on existing initiatives.”
Sunshine Coast Airport chair David Ryan said he was thrilled to see the project officially underway and pleased to have appointed a builder with such a strong reputation.
“McNab’s proven track record of delivering high-quality projects in our region gives us great confidence,” he said.
McNab CEO Kunjan Ganatra said the company was proud to bring its expertise to such a transformational project for the region.
“McNab has been contributing landmark projects to help shape the Sunshine Coast landscape since we opened our Maroochydore office in 2017, and this project is another step in building the region’s future,” he said.
“We will see around 2000 people working on this project, with 90 per cent of trades and subcontractors coming from within our region.
“Together we will deliver a terminal our community can be proud of – one that combines smart design, sustainability and a strong sense of place.”
“This is not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about creating a space that will act as an entry statement to the Sunshine Coast and serve generations of locals and visitors, and we’re proud to be a part of it.’
Populous | Fentress Studios Asia Pacific Head of Aviation Matt Findlay said the terminal design would reflect the unique character of the Sunshine Coast while delivering a seamless passenger experience.
“Our vision for the terminal is to create a space that celebrates the Sunshine Coast’s natural beauty and lifestyle while providing travellers with a modern, efficient and welcoming gateway,” he said.
“The design prioritises natural light with sweeping views of the runway, allowing passengers to experience the excitement of aircraft arrivals and departures from the comfort of the terminal.
“By seamlessly integrating security and check-in, enhancing the arrival experience, and reducing the distance between check-in and boarding gates, we’re reimagining the terminal journey to be more intuitive, efficient, and welcoming for every passenger.
Sustainability and accessibility remain at the heart of every design decision, alongside greater passenger seating and amenities,” Mr Findlay said.
The Terminal Redevelopment Project will be delivered in stages to minimise disruption to passengers and ensure continuity of operations.
The first stage is already underway, with the new outbound checked baggage handling facility scheduled for completion in early 2026 and the full domestic terminal expansion to be completed by 2027.
By 2030, Sunshine Coast Airport is forecast to welcome 2.4 million passengers annually.
The terminal’s footprint will almost double, from 6100sqm to 11,750msqm. The domestic departure lounge will increase threefold, from 1250sqm to 3750sqm, the dparture gates will have a 40 boost in capacity.
The new check-in technology will include 18 self-service kiosks and 10 automatic bag drops. Sustainability features will include mass timber, rainwater harvesting, expanded solar panels, energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), and a climate-sensitive design.
The airport is one of Australia’s fastest growing. SCA connects to Adelaide, Auckland, Cairns, Melbourne and Sydney and is supported by Air New Zealand, Alliance, Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia. There are more than 80 flights per week to Sydney and Melbourne.
The airport was declared a Priority Development Area (PDA) in 2023. By 2040, it is estimated the airport will directly contribute $460 million to Australia’s GDP. There could be more than 2000 jobs there by 2040.
Sunshine Coast Airport Pty Ltd operates and manages the airport under a 99-year lease from Sunshine Coast Council, which started in 2017.
