The safety message is being reinforced to the Gold Coast Airport community, in preparation for flight and passenger numbers to rebuild in time for Christmas.

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Virgin Australia has announced three new services betweenthe Gold Coast and Launceston, Hobart and Cairns – all starting in time for travellersto book their end of year holiday and catch ups with friends and family.

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As many Australians prepare to restart their travel plans, construction of the Gold Coast Airport terminal expansion continues to move ahead – and when it opens in 2022 it will transform the customer experience.The fresh, modern three-level 30,000sq m terminal expansion, which will double the floor size of the existing terminal, includes four glass aerobridges, additional retail space and a large departure lounge.

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A frustrating start to September school holidays is once again being experienced by Gold Coast tourism operators who rely on interstate visitors, with the airport recording fewer than 1,000 passengers through the gates each day.

The numbers represent about 5 per cent of the levels seen in September 2019.

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Gold Coast Airport passenger numbers have fallen to about 10 per cent of pre-COVID-19 levels this week, and can be expected to drop further if lockdowns extend.

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South Australians and Queenslanders have even more opportunities to explore each other’s backyards after the commencement of a Qantas Gold Coast-Adelaide service today.

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Flights between the Gold Coast and Adelaide will climb to 25 per cent above pre-COVID-19 levels when a new Qantas Gold Coast-Adelaide service takes off in June.

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Beach holidays, trips to Byron and market adventures have packed Gary the Gold Coast Airport therapy dog’s itinerary in the past 12 months – but he is set to return to work greeting passengers as flight numbers ramp up.

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The first Rex passengers to touch down at Gold Coast Airport today were given a warm welcome – with a water cannon salute, experience and flight vouchers given away, live music in the terminal and a themed cake to mark the occasion.

In time for the busy Easter period, Rex is starting twice daily direct services between the Gold Coast and Melbourne from today and the Gold Coast and Sydney from Thursday.

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The number of flights through Gold Coast Airport could nearly double by Easter, as Australians restart their travel plans – provided domestic borders remain open.

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