Sunshine Coast Airport Chief Executive Officer, Chris Mills, announced his decision to step down from his role later this year.
Mr Mills said it had been a privilege to lead the Airport through a period of significant growth and transformation.
“Sunshine Coast Airport is in a strong position, with a clear vision, a capable team and a pipeline of strategic projects that will support the next phase of growth. It was not an easy decision to make, but I have been approached to take on a new challenge outside the aviation industry.”
“It is a fantastic team, and together they have achieved a great deal and are well positioned to continue delivering for the Airport and the region,” Mr Mills said.
During his tenure, Sunshine Coast Airport has strengthened its position as one of Australia’s fastest-growing airports, supported by increased connectivity and significant infrastructure investment including a $170 million terminal redevelopment which is well underway, and the approval of the Airport’s Gateway Precinct Masterplan.
Sunshine Coast Airport Chair David Ryan acknowledged Mr Mills’ leadership and contribution.
“Chris has played an important role in building a positive and collaborative culture, and his commitment and leadership has been instrumental in progressing key strategic initiatives.”
“On behalf of the Board, I wish Chris every success in his next chapter and thank him for his valued contribution and for the strong foundation he has helped to build.”
“Sunshine Coast Airport is well positioned for the future, with a strong team and substantial opportunities ahead. We will commence recruitment for a new CEO to build on the momentum already underway and lead the next phase of growth for both the Airport and the region.” Mr Ryan said
Mr Mills will remain in the role until later this year while the recruitment process is underway, helping to support a smooth transition.
ENDS-
For more information contact:
Kylie Ezzy – General Manager People and Communications
(07) 5373 1901 [email protected]
or
(07) 5373 1901
About Sunshine Coast Airport
Sunshine Coast Airport (the Airport) is the gateway to the Sunshine Coast and one of Australia’s fastest growing airports. The Airport directly connects the Sunshine Coast community to domestic and international destinations; Adelaide, Auckland, Singapore via Bali, Cairns, Melbourne and Sydney and is supported by five airlines; Air New Zealand, Alliance, Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia.
Our core markets of Sydney and Melbourne continue to be our most popular route with more than 80 flights per week. Passenger numbers have steadily increased by 10 percent year on year with 1.8 million passengers overall projected in 2026. By 2030, the number of passengers is projected to grow to 2.4 million.
In July 2023, the Airport was declared a Priority Development Area, with a new Development Scheme taking effect in September 2024. As part of the new development scheme, the first development area – the Gateway Precinct – was approved in November 2025. Permitted development includes a hotel, retail expansion, childcare, medical, shopping and other services. The Gateway Precinct is a core part of our strategy to deliver a modern world-class airport that will unlock significant benefits for the region and open-up commercial opportunities for the airport as it grows.
In October 2025, the Airport began its $170 million terminal redevelopment which is set to create a larger terminal with double the footprint to support the future of our airport and the region. The terminal upgrades will include 50 percent more retail food and beverage offerings, departure lounge expanding by three times in size (from 1250sqm to 3750sqm) and a 40 percent increase in airline capacity with two new gates. The first stage of the terminal redevelopment was completed in February 2026, with the opening of the new state-of-the-art outbound baggage facility. The new facility includes major infrastructure upgrades to streamline baggage handling processes from check-in to aircraft.
By 2040, it is estimated the airport will directly contribute $460 million to Australia’s GDP. Jobs created on airport are forecast to grow to 2,400 by 2040 and support a total of 3,438 direct and indirect jobs.
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.
