Airports in Australia With IATA Codes: Operating Airlines & Terminals

Australia relies heavily on air travel for domestic and international connectivity. The country has numerous world-class airports in Australia that serve as gateways to its natural wonders, cities, and cultural experiences. 

In this guide, we have covered the top airports in Australia, their facilities, transportation options, and everything you need to know for a smooth travel experience.

Airport Name	Type	Airport Code
Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport	Domestic & International	SYD
Melbourne Tullamarine Airport	Domestic & International	MEL
Brisbane International Airport	Domestic & International	BNE
Perth Airport	Domestic & International	PER
Adelaide Airport	Domestic & International	ADL
Gold Coast Airport	Domestic & Limited International	OOL
Cairns Airport	Domestic & International	CNS
Hobart International Airport	Primarily Domestic, Limited International	HBA
Darwin International Airport	Domestic & International	DRW
Canberra Airport	Primarily Domestic, Limited International	CBR

1. Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) – Australia’s Busiest International Gateway

Sydney Airport is Australia’s busiest international gateway, handling 41.4 million passengers in 2024. As one of the top airports in Australia, it features the longest operational runway in the country (4,400 m) and connects to over 46 domestic and 43 international destinations.

Address: 1Mascot NSW 2020, Australia

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EMuSUHBkiVfw3UG28

Airport Code: SYD

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights

Phone: +61296679111

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 12 km from Sydney CBD (Central Business District)

Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and many other international carriers operate from Sydney Airport, making it one of the best airports in Australia for global connectivity.

Terminals: Three terminals are available – Terminal 1 (International), Terminal 2 (Domestic), and Terminal 3 (Qantas Domestic).

Services & Amenities:

• Accessible toilets, adult changing facilities, braille ATMs, wheelchair-accessible fountains, tactile indicators
• Dedicated animal relief facilities in T1 and T2
• Free Wi-Fi throughout terminals
• Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, bars
• Qantas, Virgin Australia, and other premium lounges
• Real-time flight information displays across terminals

Nearby Attractions:

• Sydney CBD: Iconic landmarks like Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Darling Harbour
• The Grounds of Alexandria: A popular cafe and garden space
• Newtown: Trendy suburb with markets, shops, and eateries
• Maroubra Beach: Local beach for relaxation and surfing

Suggested Read:How To Check Australia Visa Status Online For Indians

2. Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) – Victoria’s Premier International Airport

Melbourne Airport ranks as the second busiest among the airports in Australia, serving approximately 35 million passengers annually. Operating since 1970, this Australian airport serves as a major hub for Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar.

Address: Melbourne Airport VIC 3045, Australia

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ghhTL3MTk9hmQxKT8

Airport Code: MEL

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights

Phone: +61392971600

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 21.8 km from Melbourne CBD

Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Air New Zealand, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and numerous other domestic and international airlines service this major hub among airports in Australia.

Terminals: Four terminals operate at Melbourne Airport – Terminal 1 (Qantas Domestic), Terminal 2 (International), Terminal 3 (Virgin Australia Domestic), and Terminal 4 (Budget Airlines).

Services & Amenities:

• Accessible restrooms, wheelchair assistance, designated parking
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
• Duty-free shopping, luxury brands, restaurants, cafes
• Qantas Club, Virgin Australia, Plaza Premium lounges
• Currency exchange, charging stations, medical center, showers, children’s play area

Nearby Attractions:

• DFO Essendon: Large outlet shopping center with major brands and bargains.
• URBNSURF Melbourne: Australia’s first surf park, offering wave pools and lessons.
• Woodlands Historic Park & Living Legends: Parkland with historic homestead and retired champion racehorses.
• Melbourne CBD: Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, and laneways for art, food, and shopping.

Suggested Read:Australia in January: A Complete Guide to Weather, Activities, and Travel Tips

3. Brisbane International Airport (BNE) – Queensland’s Main Aviation Hub

Brisbane Airport is Queensland’s main aviation hub. This significant gateway among the best airports in Australia handles over 22.6 million passengers annually and features two parallel runways, with the main one extending 3,300 meters. 

Address: Airport Dr, Brisbane Airport QLD 4008, Australia

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GX6aZCYvj5hHQYoC9

Airport Code: BNE

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights

Phone: NA

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 16.4 km from Brisbane CBD

Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand, and other international carriers serve this important entry point among top airports in Australia.

Terminals: Two terminals serve passengers – Domestic Terminal and International Terminal.

Services & Amenities:

• Accessible restrooms, wheelchair assistance, dedicated service team
• Free Wi-Fi in both terminals
• Duty-free shops, various restaurants across terminals
• Qantas, Virgin Australia, Emirates, Aspire lounges
• Baby changing facilities, free baggage trolleys, visitor information desks

Nearby Attractions:

• Skygate: Shopping and dining precinct with DFO (Direct Factory Outlet) near the airport.
• Eat Street Northshore: Vibrant riverside market with food stalls, live music, and entertainment.
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: The World’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary, perfect for wildlife encounters.
• Brisbane CBD: South Bank Parklands, Story Bridge, and Queensland Gallery of Modern Art.

Suggested Read:Australia Visa Extension for Indians

4. Perth Airport (PER) – Western Australia’s Gateway

Perth Airport serves as Western Australia’s primary international gateway. As the fourth busiest in the network of airports in Australia, it features four terminals and two runways, with plans for expansion by 2028.

Address: 32 Boud Ave, Perth Airport WA 6105, Australia

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DCksnNpLGvEFRB5u8

Airport Code: PER

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights

Phone: +61894788888

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 11.7 km from Perth CBD

Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, and various other airlines operate from this vital hub among airports in Australia.

Terminals: Four terminals provide service – Terminal 1 (International), Terminal 2 (Regional), Terminal 3 (Domestic), and Terminal 4 (Qantas Domestic).

Services & Amenities:

• Wheelchair-accessible facilities, ramps, lifts throughout terminals
• Free Wi-Fi powered by iiNet
• Duty-free shops, cafes, restaurants
• Emirates (A380 access) and Qantas Club lounges
• Observation deck in T1, public viewing area with aviation displays

Nearby Attractions:

• Kings Park and Botanic Garden: One of the world’s largest inner-city parks with panoramic city views.
• Elizabeth Quay: Waterfront precinct with restaurants, public art, and the iconic Bell Tower.
• Fremantle: This historic port city has markets, museums, and vibrant cafes.
• Cottesloe Beach: Famous for its white sand, clear water, and sunsets.

Suggested Read:15 Best Reasons to Visit Australia – Top Attractions & Must-See Places

5. Adelaide Airport (ADL) – South Australia’s Primary Airport

Adelaide Airport is South Australia’s primary aviation facility. This well-regarded airport in Australia features a dual-use international/domestic terminal. Since its modern terminal opened in 2005, it has served over 8.5 million passengers annually with a single main runway.

Address: Sir Richard Williams Ave, Adelaide Airport SA 5950, Australia

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Z6n5isXKrkyZek376

Airport Code: ADL

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights

Phone: +61883089211

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 7.1 km from Adelaide CBD

Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Emirates are among the carriers servicing this efficient facility in the network of airports in Australia.

Terminals: One integrated terminal handles both domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Lifts, ramps, accessible toilets, TDD telephones
• Free Wi-Fi throughout Terminal 1
• Duty-free shops, cafes, bars, restaurants
• Qantas Club and Virgin Australia lounges

Nearby Attractions:

• Harbour Town Premium Outlets: Major shopping destination for bargains and brands.
• Glenelg Beach: Popular seaside suburb with a jetty, cafes, and water activities.
• Adelaide Central Market: Iconic indoor market for fresh produce and gourmet foods.
• Adelaide Botanic Garden: Beautiful gardens in the heart of the city, ideal for a relaxing stroll.

Suggested Read:How to Travel to Australia on a Budget: The Ultimate Travel Guide

6. Gold Coast Airport (OOL) – Popular Tourist Destination Airport

Gold Coast Airport serves as a vital link in the network of airports in Australia, uniquely crossing state borders between Queensland and New South Wales. 

With over 6 million annual passengers, this popular tourist destination features recently expanded terminal facilities and serves as a focus city for Virgin Australia and an operating base for Jetstar. 

Address: Eastern Ave, Bilinga QLD 4225, Australia

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NuhSySuszy417mdd8

Airport Code: OOL

Category: Domestic with limited international flights

Phone: +61755891100

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 34.9 km from Gold Coast CBD

Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Air New Zealand, AirAsia, and Scoot are some of the airlines that operate from this tourist-friendly airport in Australia.

Terminals: One terminal serves both domestic and international passengers.

Services & Amenities:

• Special assistance facilities, accessible toilets throughout terminals
• Free Wi-Fi across the airport premises
• Duty-free shopping, cafes, bars
• Virgin Australia and Qantas Club lounges

Nearby Attractions:

• Kirra Beach: Renowned surfing beach with scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Coolangatta Beach: Vibrant beach area with shops, cafes, and events.
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Wildlife park with native Australian animals and shows.
• Surfers Paradise: Iconic Gold Coast destination for nightlife, shopping, and the beach.

Suggested Read:Australia Visa Rejection for Indians

7. Cairns Airport (CNS) – Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns Airport functions as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This important entry in any Australia airport guide handles over 4.7 million passengers annually with its 3,156 m runway. The airport features two separate terminals for domestic and international flights, serving as a major hub for tourism in Tropical North Queensland.

Address: Airport Ave, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pLtoyUxpduHnMQgZ9
Airport Code: CNS
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +61740806703
Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 5.7 km from Cairns CBD
Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, and various other domestic and international carriers serving this crucial tourism gateway.
Terminals: Two terminals – Terminal 1 (Domestic) and Terminal 2 (International).
Services & Amenities:

• Wheelchair facilities, accessible toilets throughout terminals
• Free Wi-Fi in domestic and international terminals
• Local souvenirs, cafes, fast food outlets
• Qantas Club lounge in the domestic terminal

Nearby Attractions:

• Great Barrier Reef Tours: Access point for snorkeling, diving, and reef cruises.
• Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: Popular swimming and recreation area along the waterfront.
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Scenic cableway over the rainforest to Kuranda.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway: Take a historic train journey through the rainforest to the village of Kuranda.

8. Hobart International Airport (HBA) – Tasmania’s Main Airport

Hobart Airport is Tasmania’s primary aviation gateway. With approximately 2.6 million annual passengers, this facility among airports in Australia features a combined domestic/international terminal and a runway extended to accommodate large aircraft like Boeing 787s.

Address: Strachan St, Cambridge TAS 7170, Australia
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2dh7tmoNxjhPyh5r5
Airport Code: HBA
Category: Domestic with limited international flights
Phone: +61362161600
Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 17.1 km from Hobart CBD
Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and seasonal international charter services connecting Tasmania to mainland Australia and beyond.
Terminals: One main terminal handling both domestic and limited international operations.
Services & Amenities: 

• Ramps, accessible toilets for mobility challenges
• Free Wi-Fi throughout terminal buildings
• Limited retail outlets, cafes offering snacks and beverages
• Car rental desks, SkyBus service to Hobart CBD every 30 minutes

Nearby Attractions:

• Mount Wellington (Kunanyi): Panoramic views of Hobart and the surrounding region.
• Salamanca Place & Market: Historic waterfront precinct with markets, galleries, and cafes.
• MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): World-renowned contemporary art museum.
• Richmond Village: This historic town is home to Australia’s oldest bridge and charming shops.

9. Darwin International Airport (DRW) – Northern Territory’s Principal Airport

Darwin Airport serves as Northern Territory’s principal aviation hub, providing important connections for this remote region. This significant facility in the network of airports in Australia features one integrated terminal serving both domestic and international flights with specialized services connecting northern Australia to Southeast Asia.

Address: Henry Wrigley Dr, Eaton NT 0820, Australia
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZVK22aQa3ip3wHjA6
Airport Code: DRW
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +61889201811
Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 11.1 km from Darwin CBD
Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Airnorth, Singapore Airlines, Silkair, and various international carriers connecting northern Australia to Southeast Asia.
Terminals: One integrated terminal serving both domestic and international flights.
Services & Amenities: 

• Assistance services for passengers with disabilities or special needs
• Free Wi-Fi across the terminal area
• Cafes offering local flavors, duty-free shops
• Qantas Club lounge for premium travelers

Nearby Attractions:

• Darwin Waterfront Precinct: Restaurants, wave pool, and swimming lagoon.
• Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Famous for food stalls, crafts, and sunset views.
• Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory: Exhibits on local history, art, and Cyclone Tracy.
• Crocosaurus Cove: An Interactive crocodile park in the city center.

10. Canberra Airport (CBR) – Australia’s Capital City Airport

Canberra Airport is Australia’s capital city gateway, offering essential connectivity for government and diplomatic travel. This modern facility among airports in Australia features an integrated terminal handling both domestic and international operations. 

Address: 21 Terminal Cct, Canberra Airport ACT 2609, Australia

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Mu5CmC2VNvsABENC9

Airport Code: CBR

Category: Domestic with limited international flights

Phone: +61262752222

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 8.1 km from Canberra CBD

Operating Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, and domestic carriers connecting the capital to major Australian cities and select international destinations.

Terminals: One integrated terminal handling both domestic and international operations.

Services & Amenities: 

• Facilities for disabilities and mobility challenges
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal area
• Local cafes and limited retail options, including bookshops
• Virgin Australia and Qantas Club lounges

Nearby Attractions:

• Australian War Memorial: National military museum and memorial.
• Parliament House: Iconic seat of Australia’s government, open for tours.
• National Gallery of Australia: This is a major art museum that displays Australian and international works.
• Lake Burley Griffin: Central lake with walking/cycling paths and scenic views.

Top 5 Places You Must Visit in Australia

Australia offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, from iconic urban landmarks to natural wonders. When planning your trip to airports in Australia, make sure to include these must-visit destinations in your itinerary.

Place	Location	Highlights
Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge	Sydney (NSW)	Iconic architecture, harbor views, nearby beaches
Great Barrier Reef	Queensland	Snorkeling/diving, marine life, island escapes
Uluru (Ayers Rock)	Northern Territory	Sacred site, sunrise/sunset views, Indigenous culture
Twelve Apostles	Victoria	Coastal limestone stacks, scenic drives
Wineglass Bay	Tasmania	Pristine beaches, hiking trails, wildlife

Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney (New South Wales)

Sydney is home to two of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. The Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers world-class performances and stunning architecture. 

Visitors can climb the Harbour Bridge (BridgeClimb) for panoramic views of the Sydney skyline and harbor. Nearby attractions include Bondi Beach, Darling Harbour, and The Rocks district for history and dining.

Best For: Architecture enthusiasts, culture lovers, and photographers.

Great Barrier Reef (Queensland)

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving to explore vibrant marine life, scenic helicopter rides for breathtaking aerial views of the reef, and island escapes like the Whitsundays and Hamilton Island for relaxation. 

The best airports in Australia for accessing the Great Barrier Reef include Cairns Airport (CNS) and Brisbane Airport (BNE).

Best For: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and marine enthusiasts.

Uluru (Ayers Rock), Northern Territory

Uluru is a massive sandstone monolith located in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, sacred to the Anangu people. Travelers can witness the changing colors of Uluru at sunrise and sunset, explore the nearby Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) rock formations, and learn about Indigenous culture through guided tours. 

Best For: Spiritual travelers, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers.

Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road (Victoria)

The Twelve Apostles are limestone stacks along Victoria’s dramatic coastline, part of the Great Ocean Road. Visitors will enjoy stunning coastal views and photo opportunities and nearby attractions like the Loch Ard Gorge and the Port Campbell National Park.

Scenic drives along one of the world’s most beautiful coastal roads make this area unforgettable. Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) serves as the main gateway for this destination.

Best For: Road trippers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park (Tasmania)

Travelers can enjoy stunning views from Wineglass Bay Lookout after a short hike through the park. The area offers excellent opportunities for kayaking in crystal-clear waters, spotting native wildlife, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

Visitors can also explore the Freycinet National Park‘s rugged mountains and landscapes surrounding the bay. Hobart International Airport (HBA) provides convenient access to this Tasmanian gem, making it an essential stop on any Australian itinerary.

Best For: Hikers and beach lovers.

FAQs

What are the accommodation options near major airports in Australia? 

Major airports in Australia offer different lodging options, from budget to luxury. Sydney and Melbourne airports feature on-site hotels like Rydges, while Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide provide numerous nearby accommodations with convenient shuttle services to these top airports in Australia.

What are some of the facilities at Australian airports? 

Australia airport facilities include duty-free shopping, dining, currency exchange, free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, and premium lounges. The best airports in Australia also provide luggage storage, pharmacy services, and medical assistance for traveler convenience.

How does SmartGate work at Australian airports? 

SmartGate at airports in Australia is an automated border processing system using facial recognition technology. Eligible travelers with ePassports can self-process through immigration, significantly reducing wait times when arriving at international terminals in Australia.

What are the transportation options available from airports in Australia? 

Airport transportation in Australia includes trains (Sydney, Brisbane, Perth), buses, airport shuttles, taxis, and rideshare services at all major airports. Melbourne features the SkyBus service, while car rentals are readily available at all the top airports in Australia.

How long does an Australian tourist visa last? 

Australian tourist visas typically last 3-12 months depending on the visa type. Most travelers visiting airports in Australia use the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visas, which allow stays of up to 3 months per visit within a 12-month period.

What items cannot be brought into Australia? 

Australia enforces strict biosecurity laws at all airports in Australia. Prohibited items include fresh produce, meat products, plants, seeds, untreated wooden articles, and certain animal products. All food, plant material, and animal products must be declared upon arrival.

How much is 1AUD in INR? 

1 Australian Dollar (AUD) is approximately ₹51.65 Indian Rupees (INR) based on the current mid-market exchange rate.

Which are the nearest airports to popular Australian destinations?

The main airports in Australia serving popular destinations include Sydney Airport (SYD), Melbourne Airport (MEL), Brisbane Airport (BNE), Cairns Airport (CNS) for Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock Airport (AYQ) for Uluru, and Gold Coast Airport (OOL) for beach destinations.

What procedures should be followed if belongings get lost inside an Australian airport? 

For lost items at airports in Australia, contact the airport’s lost property office immediately. Items lost on aircraft require contacting the airline directly. The best airports in Australia maintain online reporting systems and dedicated offices for handling lost belongings.