WHITSUNDAY Coast Airport (WCA) has cracked the ‘magic’ 500,000 passenger number for the 2023-2024 year.
It is an historic milestone for the airport, as it is the first time it has surpassed 500,000 annual passengers, in its 73-year history.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the council-owned and operated airport had kicked some amazing goals in the post-COVID era and, in 2023/24, more than 507,000 passengers transited through the terminal.
“Breaking the 500,000-passenger milestone is a testament to our Whitsunday region’s tourism appeal and WCA’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all travellers,” he said.
“We’ve set the bar high, and it’s still a work-in-progress, as our airport team continue to expand our route options and upgrade facilities to match the growth in passenger numbers.
“The sky really is the limit, and the new record is a clear indicator of our airport’s essential role in supporting tourism and economic growth in the region.”
Mayor Collins said the updated WCA masterplan had recently been completed and quantity surveyed for costings.
“This means that the project is now shovel ready and needs funding support at Federal and State Government levels, and I have already been proactive in advocating strongly during recent trips to Brisbane and Canberra.
“The last terminal upgrade was completed in 2019 and was designed to cater for a decade of growth but such has been the rapid growth of passenger numbers, the terminal has hit capacity in less than five years.”
WRC Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said increased flight frequencies and adding more new routes were key to the record passenger numbers.
“It is exciting that, despite the collapse of Bonza earlier this year, we have still set a new annual record and – with direct Adelaide flights starting in September – it is vital that we continue to explore new tourism markets,” he said.
“While my airport team will celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on ensuring every passenger enjoys a top-tier experience, from take-off to touchdown, while also expanding our reach to welcome more visitors to the stunning Whitsundays.
“Our growth has been consistent over a number of years, since 2021, when 280,000 passengers passed through the terminal, to a record 477,490 in 2022/23 and, now, we have cracked the magic 500,000 barrier for 2023/24.
“The strategic importance of a high functioning airport cannot be overstated, as it not only supports the tourism industry but also boosts our local economy and creates jobs for our community,” Mr Turner said.
“The Whitsunday Coast Airport’s role extends beyond just tourism. It is a vital link for business travel and freight, ensuring that our region remains connected and competitive.”
