First stage of terminal redevelopment complete – Sunshine Coast Airport opens new outbound baggage facility
Sunshine Coast Airport has officially opened its new state-of-the-art outbound baggage facility, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s $170 million terminal transformation.
The new facility has been designed to support increased checked baggage handling capacity for growing passenger numbers and enhanced security compliance.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO, Chris Mills said the new infrastructure represents critical investment in the airport’s future.
“Investing in critical infrastructure like this means we can grow, meet the needs of our airline partners, and continue to support national and international connectivity.
“This new facility is the first major step in our commitment to provide the best service and experience for travellers.
“Behind every smooth passenger journey is state-of-the-art technology and security that delivers a seamless travel experience.
“We are excited to complete the first major step in delivering our terminal transformation over the next 18 months.”
Sunshine Coast Airport’s General Manager of Operations, Kate McCreery-Carr said the new system represents a major upgrade to the airport’s operational infrastructure.
“The new facility includes more than 300 metres of new conveyor systems including two large make-up loops to support increased baggage capacity, doubling what was originally here at the airport. This means a streamlined and efficient baggage handling process from check-in to aircraft as we grow.
“We have also upgraded our scanning equipment in accordance with federal government requirements.
“The new technology allows for more advanced inspection of baggage, while streamlining the process for both passengers and airport staff.
“This significantly improves screening accuracy and reduces manual intervention within the baggage process.”
McNab General Manager Key Accounts, Mark Jewell said the project has run smoothly from the design stage right up to construction.
“Construction began in May 2025 and was completed over a seven-month period with more than 500 jobs already committed during the first stage.
“This project was delivered through careful planning and close coordination with stakeholders including Sunshine Coast Airport and their airline partners, Energex, Rapiscan – who supplied and installed the screening equipment, and Ansir who completed the baggage handling system.
“Completing the facility within a seven-month time frame reflects the strong collaboration and commitment of everyone involved.”
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor, Rosanna Natoli welcomed the upgrade and its role in strengthening the region’s future.
“A strong, efficient airport improves connectivity, which is essential for regional development. It makes the Sunshine Coast more accessible, supports local businesses, and enhances our profile nationally and internationally.”
Construction is underway for the next phase of the terminal expansion project including the new check in and arrivals hall with both due to open later this year.
Key benefits of the baggage handling and screening system include:
- Advanced Security Capability: Introduction of new, state-of-the-art Rapiscan CT (Computed Tomography) screening technology provides more precise and effective detection.
- Processing Efficiency: Designed to manage higher throughput, the system supports faster baggage movement from check-in through to aircraft loading.
- Greater System Reliability: Updated infrastructure minimises operational disruptions and downtime, resulting in a more dependable baggage operation.
- Long-Term Compliance: The upgrades comply with Australian Government aviation security standards.
Airport Fast Facts: - SCA is experiencing significant growth expecting to welcome more than 1.8M passengers in FY26 and 2.4M by 2030.
- SCA has more capacity in core markets of Sydney and Melbourne than any time in the airport’s history.
- Sydney and Melbourne markets account for 88% of all airline seats to/from Sunshine Coast Airport with around 240 flights a week during the holiday period for FY26.
- Terminal footprint will almost double, growing from 6,100m² to 11,750m².
- Domestic departure lounge will increase threefold, from 1,250m² to 3,750m².
- Departure gates will increase from 5 to 7 – a 40% boost in capacity.
- Check-in new technology: 18 self-service kiosks and 10 automatic bag drops.
- Sustainability features: mass timber, rainwater harvesting, expanded solar panels, energy-efficient Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), climate-sensitive design.
- Sunshine Coast Airport’s full terminal expansion is to be completed in 2027.
ENDS-
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.
