Townsville Airport has celebrated its busiest financial year in more than a decade, facilitating nearly 1.7 million passengers between 1 July 2023and 30 June 2024. 

The milestone represents a 3.3% increase in passengers on last financial year, equating to an extra 55,000 people passing through the terminal.   

Townsville Airport General Manager Brendan Cook said the airport was bracing for a busy and exciting year ahead, buoyed by the federal approval of the 2023 Townsville Airport Master Plan. 

 “The consistent growth in passenger numbers is a result of strong demand for domestic travel. Cost of living pressures have seen more Aussies willing to explore local destinations like Townsville than head overseas,” said Mr Cook.  

 "This was especially evident during the winter, with more than 160,000 passengers passing through the terminal in July alone, making it our second busiest month in history, just short of the current record by 57 passengers. 

 “August was also busy and ranked as our sixth busiest month ever. 

 “Major events, such as the Women’s State of Origin and P!nk’s concert played an important role in driving domestic traffic over the course of the year.” 

 While Sydney and Melbourne services proved popular, Brisbane remains the top destination, representing approximately 50% of the airport's total passenger volume.  

The 2023 Townsville Airport Master Plan was approved by the Federal Government in May 2024, and details exciting developments for the airport’s future including an expanded terminal and enhanced facilities. 

 The Master Plan forecasts annual passenger numbers will reach 3.7 million by 2043, more than doubling current figures.  

 “The next twenty years will be a critical growth period for the Townsville North Queensland region, with a predicted population boom of 38% set to see resident numbers soar to more than 325,000,” commented Mr Cook. 

“We believe in the strength of the Townsville region, which is why we’ve invested more than $22million in upgrades over the past three years.” 

Townsville Airport is the eleventh busiest airport in Australia, handling more than 300 flights each week. 

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