Newcastle Airport has officially opened its brand-new arrivals terminal, welcoming passengers ahead of schedule and marking a major step forward for the Hunter region. The early launch paves the way for the international departures area, set to open later this year.
The new terminal forms part of a long-term vision to grow the airport’s capacity and connect the Newcastle and Hunter region to more destinations.
Originally due in August, the facility opened weeks early after more than 314,000 hours of construction by over 2,000 workers – many from local businesses.
The modern space doubles the airport’s passenger capacity to over 2.5 million a year. It also introduces swing-gate functionality to switch between domestic and international use as needed, along with wide-body aircraft capability.
New features include a larger arrivals hall, smoother access from car park to gate, upgraded signage and digital wayfinding, plus two hours of free parking in Long Stay Saver area. There’s also the new Crosswinds Coffee Co, serving locally roasted sprocket beans.
“This terminal is a major investment in the Hunter’s future… delivered over four years, creating 4,400 jobs in the long term, and giving our region a terminal ready to grow beyond 2.5 million passengers a year,” Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said.
“Our shareholder councils have built a lasting legacy with this project. Now it’s time to make the region proud.”
Built with sustainability in mind, the project is chasing a 5 Star Green Star rating and adds to the airport’s Level 4+ Airport Carbon Accreditation – the highest of any airport in Australia.
International flights from Newcastle to Bali take off from 21 October, with direct Perth services starting September. The airport says both route are already seeing strong demand.
“This is the largest investment in the region’s aviation tourism history. With this terminal now operational, we’re ready to welcome more visitors, open new trade channels and connect the Hunter to more of the world,” Horton said.
In June, Jetstar announced it would commence Newcastle-Bali (Denpasar) flights in October 2025, operating three times per week and providing 70,000 seats on the route. The move marked the return of international flights to Newcastle.
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All images by Newcastle Airport.
