Left: The new JR Duty Free store at Darwin Airport
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott officially opened the newly expanded terminal at Darwin International Airport on Saturday (May 9, 2015). Ian Kew, CEO of Northern Territory Airports, the operator of Darwin Airport, was also present at the opening ceremony.
“Since its beginnings as little more than a landing strip at Fannie Bay, Darwin International Airport has been an important part of the Top End community and a key contributor to its economy,” said Kew. “Last year the airport had 2.3 million passengers through its doors, and we’re expecting this number to continue to climb.
“The terminal expansion project aimed to cater for this growth – to create a bigger, more efficient terminal that offers visitors a better customer experience and that supports Darwin International’s airline and retail partners to build their businesses.
“Investment in the airport’s infrastructure benefits the Top End by helping to attract and grow air services to the region, supporting tourism, business and industry. Darwin International is majority owned by superannuation funds. Its success contributes to secure financial incomes for Australians, including thousands of Territorians.”
The expansion project has seen the terminal grow from approximately 172,200ft2 to 290,600ft2, and includes the addition of four new domestic gates, two new international gates, additional security areas, a larger check-in area and a new multi-use baggage reclaim area. In addition, Qantas and Virgin Australia have both opened new airline lounges and the airport’s retail partners AWPL, Delaware North Companies and JR Duty Free have added several new and redesigned outlets.
