Gold Coast Airport is gearing up for what could be one of the busiest summers the airport has ever seen, with more than 1.2 million passengers expected over December and January. 

Traffic modelling suggests domestic travel will be particularly strong, even rivaling record-breaking summers of the past – with Sydney and Melbourne the most popular routes, followed by Auckland internationally.

Gold Coast Airport will also welcome seasonal services from Hong Kong on 18 January, wrapping up the summer holiday season on a high.

Chief Commercial Officer Adam Rowe said the busiest days are expected to be either side of Christmas.

“We are anticipating passenger numbers will start to pick up from this Friday, with the busiest days expected to be the 20th and27th of December,” he said.

“On the busiest days we’re likely to see more than 22,000 passengers through Gold Coast Airport – so we’re asking passengers to allow extra time to get to and through the terminal.

“If you’re flying out of Gold Coast Airport, we recommend booking your parking online well in advance – we’ve recently opened our new Saver carpark with around 600 additional spaces to cater for increased demand.

Gold Coast Airport has also upgraded its food, beverage and retail offering within the terminal with 24 new stores opening in the past 24 months.

“By arriving early passengers will avoid the stress of having to rush for a flight and can make the most of our upgraded departure lounge by relaxing in our expanded seating areas, or shopping and dining in our new stores.

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