Australian airports are back in full swing! In 2023, they handled a whopping 149.5 million passengers, a 26.1% increase over 2022. These bustling hubs connect the Land Down Under to destinations worldwide. The infographic below highlights the 10 busiest airports, which collectively accounted for 88% of Australia’s passengers.
Ready to explore the air travel champions of Australia? Let’s dive in!
Australia’s Top 10 Busiest Airports
Here’s the rundown of the busiest airports in Australia for 2023, showcasing how they connect locals and visitors to vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and iconic landmarks.
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Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 38,717,798
- Overview: Serving as the gateway to Australia’s largest city, Sydney Airport is the busiest in the country, accounting for 26% of total passengers in 2023.
- Highlights: Located near the Sydney Harbour, SYD offers unparalleled access to world-famous landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach. It’s a major hub for international travel and home to Qantas.
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Melbourne Airport (MEL)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 33,231,574
- Overview: Melbourne Airport, also known as Tullamarine, serves Australia’s cultural capital, famous for its arts, coffee culture, and sports.
- Highlights: As a key hub for Virgin Australia, MEL connects travellers to the bustling laneways of the CBD and the picturesque Great Ocean Road.
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Brisbane Airport (BNE)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 21,188,565
- Overview: Brisbane Airport links Queensland’s capital to major domestic and international destinations.
- Highlights: BNE is the gateway to Australia’s tropical paradise, providing access to the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, and the Great Barrier Reef.
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Perth Airport (PER)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 12,164,667
- Overview: Located in Western Australia, Perth Airport serves as a hub for mining and leisure tourism.
- Highlights: PER offers connections to stunning landscapes like the Pinnacles Desert and Rottnest Island, home of the quokka.
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Adelaide Airport (ADL)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 7,997,486
- Overview: Adelaide Airport connects South Australia to the rest of the country and beyond.
- Highlights: Known for its access to wine regions like Barossa Valley, ADL offers travelers a perfect mix of city and nature.
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Gold Coast Airport (OOL)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 6,230,170
- Overview: A major airport for sunseekers, OOL serves the glittering beaches and theme parks of the Gold Coast.
- Highlights: From Surfers Paradise to nearby Byron Bay, OOL is the ideal starting point for coastal adventures.
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Cairns Airport (CNS)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 4,458,792
- Overview: Nestled in Far North Queensland, CNS serves as the primary gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
- Highlights: With a focus on eco-tourism, Cairns Airport is a must for travellers seeking breathtaking natural wonders.
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Canberra Airport (CBR)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 2,769,430
- Overview: Serving the nation’s capital, Canberra Airport connects travellers to Australia’s political and cultural heart.
- Highlights: CBR is a short hop from Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and the National Gallery of Australia.
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Hobart Airport (HBA)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 2,611,429
- Overview: Tasmania’s busiest airport, HBA is the gateway to the island’s pristine wilderness and unique wildlife.
- Highlights: Visitors can explore MONA, the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, and Freycinet National Park.
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Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY)
- 2023 Passenger Traffic: 1,856,921
- Overview: MCY serves Queensland’s laid-back Sunshine Coast, known for its beach towns and lush hinterland.
- Highlights: From Noosa’s chic boutiques to the Glass House Mountains, this airport is perfect for a relaxed getaway.
Sydney: The Heart of Australian Aviation
The infographic’s gauge chart highlights Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) as the leader of Australian aviation, welcoming 38.7 million passengers in 2023. It’s a vital hub for domestic and international travel, representing Australia’s vibrant spirit and global connections.
Wrapping It Up: Australia Takes Flight
Australia’s airports reflect the diverse beauty and culture of this incredible country, from Sydney’s bustling cityscapes to the tranquil shores of the Sunshine Coast. These gateways connect travellers to experiences that define the essence of Australia: adventure, nature, and hospitality.
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Explore the YHM Designs Collection
Celebrate your love of Australian travel with airport code merchandise from YHM Designs. From SYD to MEL and beyond, our collection of apparel, mugs, and home décor is perfect for aviation enthusiasts and globetrotters alike.
Let’s keep soaring together!
How to cite:
Data source: Australian Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics. Illustration by YHM Designs.