Sunshine Coast Airport has selected construction company McNab and architecture firm Fentress Studios, which is owned by global design company Populous, to carry out its ambitious $170 million domestic terminal redevelopment project. The newly chosen companies will work alongside project managers Planned Performance to transform the airport's facilities over the coming years.
According to an official statement from the airport, the comprehensive redevelopment will nearly double the current terminal's footprint while significantly expanding passenger capacity and amenities. The project includes increasing the number of departure gates from five to seven and tripling the size of the departure lounge. Additionally, the upgraded terminal will feature expanded retail and dining options, along with state-of-the-art check-in and security technology systems.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills emphasized that the project has been developed with extensive input from the local community. "The terminal reflects local needs and expectations with their insights directly influencing key design features, amenities and the overall experience," Mills explained. "From the look and feel of the terminal to how we welcome and serve travelers, locals helped shape more than just a space, they helped shape a better journey for everyone."
Matt Findlay, Asia Pacific head of aviation at Fentress Studios, outlined the design philosophy that will guide the terminal's transformation. The new terminal design will incorporate the distinctive character of the Sunshine Coast region while ensuring passengers enjoy a seamless travel experience. "Our vision for the terminal is to create a space that celebrates the Sunshine Coast's natural beauty and lifestyle while providing travelers with a modern, efficient and welcoming gateway," Findlay said.
The architectural design will prioritize natural light throughout the terminal, featuring sweeping views of the runway that allow passengers to watch aircraft arrivals and departures from the comfort of the terminal building. The design team is reimagining the entire passenger journey by seamlessly integrating security and check-in processes, enhancing the arrival experience, and reducing walking distances between check-in counters and boarding gates. This approach aims to make the terminal experience more intuitive, efficient and welcoming for every passenger, while sustainability and accessibility considerations remain central to all design decisions.
To minimize disruption to current passengers, the airport has outlined a carefully planned, staged construction approach. Stage one of the project is already underway and includes the construction of a new outbound baggage handling facility, which is scheduled for completion in early 2026. The complete domestic terminal expansion is expected to be finished by 2027, at which point the airport projects it will welcome approximately 2.4 million passengers annually, representing a significant increase in capacity for the region.
