Business Leaders Gather for Airport Update at Surfair Beach Hotel
More than 100 members of the Sunshine Coast business community came together on Wednesday 18th March at the Surfair Beach Hotel for a standout After Hours + Airport Update event, jointly hosted by Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce and Coolum Business & Tourism.
Set against the relaxed coastal backdrop of Marcoola, the evening delivered far more than a casual networking opportunity. The room was filled with genuine interest and engagement as local business owners, operators and decision‑makers leaned into a clear and compelling update on one of the region’s most significant economic assets – Sunshine Coast Airport.
Presenting on the night was Chris Mills, CEO of Sunshine Coast Airport, who outlined the scale and pace of growth currently underway. Passenger numbers have reached 1.8 million this financial year, with projections climbing to 2.7 million by 2031 – representing roughly 40% growth since COVID, far outpacing the national domestic average.
These figures underline the airport’s rapid evolution from regional gateway to a major connectivity hub, and the implications for tourism, trade, employment and investment across the Sunshine Coast were front of mind for attendees.
One of the most anticipated announcements was the launch of direct Jetstar flights to Bali and Singapore, commencing the following week. These services mark the first direct connections to Asia from the Sunshine Coast, significantly expanding the region’s global reach.
The international expansion builds on existing and growing domestic and trans‑Tasman routes, including year‑round Auckland services, alongside increasing capacity to Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide. Importantly, further routes are already in development, reinforcing the airport’s long‑term trajectory.
The airport’s physical transformation is already well in motion. Rather than a future proposal, the terminal expansion is actively underway, with works set to:
- Double the terminal footprint
- Triple the size of the departure lounge
- Deliver a new check‑in hall and baggage reclaim area opening by August 2026
- Introduce self‑check kiosks and automated bag drops
- Feature floor‑to‑ceiling glass overlooking the apron
Full completion is scheduled for mid‑2027, positioning the terminal to comfortably support increased passenger volumes and an enhanced traveller experience.
Beyond the terminal, attention also turned to the broader Gateway Precinct, already approved by the state government. Plans include a 170‑room hotel expected to go to market soon, alongside commercial office space, retail, childcare and medical facilities.
Looking further ahead, the former runway site is earmarked for a resort‑style hotel, responding to a recognised shortage of accommodation across the Coast. With the region reportedly thousands of hotel rooms short of demand, the opportunity is both timely and strategic.
A key theme underpinning the update was the ongoing challenge of residents choosing to travel via Brisbane rather than their local airport. The solution, as outlined on the night, lies in increased frequency, better scheduling and expanded destinations – ensuring locals have every reason to use the infrastructure in their own backyard.
Changing travel behaviour is about convenience and confidence and the investment currently being made is designed to achieve exactly that.
By co‑hosting this event, Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce and Coolum Business & Tourism demonstrated the power of collaboration in driving meaningful regional outcomes. Placing the airport’s leadership directly in front of the business community created an accessible, informed and productive dialogue – one grounded in real projects, real timelines and real opportunities.
Events like this play a vital role in aligning business confidence with infrastructure growth, ensuring the Sunshine Coast continues to build momentum from within.
