Aerobridge installation marks final stretch to international status

With Newcastle Airport set to officially become an international port of entry to Australia in August 2025, the installation of the airport’s first-ever aerobridge, a new baggage carousel, and key terminal finishes has signalled the final phase of a once-in-a-generation project that will redefine connectivity and economic growth for the Hunter Region forever. 

Interim CEO Andrew Warrender said watching the 31-tonne, 20-metre-long aerobridge being installed was an emotional moment for a project which has the backing of the entire Hunter Region and beyond. 

“The aerobridge’s installation was a defining moment for this incredible project of transformation for our airport and ultimately our region,” Mr Warrender said.  

 “The aerobridge allows passengers to board and disembark directly from the terminal, protected from the elements, and with greater accessibility for all. 

 “We're on the cusp of something extraordinary – a future where Newcastle Airport serves as a true global gateway for our region and the aerobridge arriving was a physical exclamation point pointing to exciting times of growth ahead.”  

With sustainability at the core of all business operations and infrastructure development, April will see another landmark moment in the international terminal’s delivery when a substation is energised that will power the entire terminal and integrate with a 1236-panel solar system located in the Premium Undercover Car Park.  

Newcastle Airport’s international terminal is on the final approach for completion. Current works include: 

• New baggage infrastructure to support Code-E and Code-C aircraft, enhancing passenger access and efficiency.  
• Terminal finishes including polished concrete flooring on the ground floor, carpeting on the upper level, and bathrooms and amenities. 
• Fit out of the Arrivals Café and announcements on the food and beverage offering coming soon. 
• New full sprinkler fire system to the new and existing terminal building.  
• A new landscaped forecourt. 
• Linemarking and landscaping of Willliamtown Drive to improve access and make way for new curb side drop-off/pickup areas and pedestrian access to the Premium Undercover Car Park. 
• A new car rental building. 

Mr Warrender said the terminal was changing day by day and evolving into the final structure that will see the Hunter Region enter a new era of global connection.