Brisbane Airport breaks 19 million passenger record

14/07/2009

Brisbane Airport has defied the economic downturn, breaking the 19 million passenger mark for the first time, with a record 19.2 million passengers travelling through Brisbane Airport in the last financial year.

Domestic passengers of 14.7 million were up 2.8% percent on last year, while the International Terminal saw approximately 4.1 million people, providing 0.6% growth on 2007/2008. A total 5.5% increase in annual aircraft movements for the Domestic Terminal, and 4.6% growth for International.

New records were also set at the Domestic Terminal with a daily record of more than 50,000 people travelling through the terminal – an event which occurred four times throughout the year.

Brisbane Airport Corporation Pty Limited CEO and Managing Director, Julieanne Alroe, said this total saw a 1.3% increase on 2007/08, a good result considering the current economic environment.

“The past year has not only seen Brisbane Airport grow in record passenger numbers, but we have also expanded our network, seat capacity and infrastructure. Last year saw the opening of Brisbane Airport’s $340 million world class International Terminal expansion, providing a better passenger experience for our customers, and these results are a reflection of our efforts.”

Brisbane Airport is now connected to 29 international destinations and 42 domestic destinations, with Apia, Denpasar, Mumbai and Tamworth among the new points on the map.

The markets which experienced the most growth included the United States, Canada, Hong Kong and the Middle East.

“This growth is testament to the extra capacity and new airlines which have been introduced into the network, such as V Australia onto the Brisbane to Los Angeles route,” she said.

Ms Alroe said airline ticket sale prices have also contributed strongly to the growth.

“Airlines with special airfares and packages contributed to continual passenger growth, but there is no doubt that with more competition, lower airfares and more choices, the passengers have been the winners this year in air travel.”

 Ends