Sunshine Coast Airport has brought together key tourism industry, local business and government stakeholders to discuss its growth, terminal expansion and future property development plans.
The forum highlighted the airport’s status as one of the fastest growing in Australia, and the opportunity to grow the region as a competitive and connected economic hub.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO, Chris Mills said the event is an important opportunity to align industry around a shared vision for the airport’s sustainable growth.
“Our airport is a gateway and a key economic driver for the region.
“As we continue to expand our terminal and open new routes, such as the Singapore and Bali connection commencing soon, we are in a great position to deliver on our vision for the future of the airport and the region.
“Our Gateway precinct earthworks are currently underway, with plans in place for various development opportunities set to attract aviation-related businesses and commercial partners to the precinct.
“This is an exciting time for our region, local businesses and community.”
Minister for Tourism, Andrew Powell MP said the airport’s expansion was a significant step in strengthening the state’s long term tourism vision.
“Growing Queensland’s aviation connectivity is central to delivering Destination 2045, with every new route creating more opportunities for visitors to explore our regions and share in the tourism benefits,” Minister Powell said.
“Sunshine Coast Airport’s continued growth is vital to dispersing travellers across the state and showcasing Queensland to the world as we head toward Brisbane 2032 and beyond.”
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor, Rosanna Natoli said the airport’s expansion plans will lead to greater opportunities for jobs and growth.
“Tourism is one of the Sunshine Coast’s most important economic pillars, and the airport is a critical strategic asset.
“Our airport’s growth supports local jobs, strengthens our business community and helps keep the Sunshine Coast connected.
“Airports don’t just move people – they move ideas, investment, opportunity and ambition. “Sunshine Coast Council is proud to work alongside the airport and government to drive strong sustainable economic growth, Ms Natoli concluded.
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For more information or to arrange an interview contact:
Sunshine Coast Airport
(07) 5373 1901
About Sunshine Coast Airport
Sunshine Coast Airport (SCA) is the gateway to the Sunshine Coast and one of Australia’s fastest growing airports. SCA directly connects the Sunshine Coast community to five domestic and international destinations (Adelaide, Auckland, Cairns, Melbourne and Sydney) and is supported by five airlines (Air New Zealand, Alliance, Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia). With more than 80 flights per week to Sydney and Melbourne, and convenient connections to Adelaide, Auckland and Cairns, SCA is the natural choice.
In July 2023, Sunshine Coast Airport was declared a Priority Development Area (PDA), with a new Development Scheme taking effect on Friday 27 September 2024. The Development Scheme will unlock opportunities that attract investment, drive economic growth and create jobs on and off airport. By 2040, it is estimated the airport will directly contribute $460m in total to Australia’s GDP. Jobs on airport are forecast to grow to 2,400 by 2040 and support a total of 3438 jobs (direct and indirect).
Sunshine Coast Airport Pty Ltd operates and manages Sunshine Coast Airport, the gateway to the Sunshine Coast and Noosa regions, under a 99-year lease from Sunshine Coast Council which commenced in December 2017.
