For the first time in more than two years, Perth Airport’s domestic terminals are set for their busiest period over the April school holidays.
Perth Airport’s Chief Operating Officer, Scott Woodward, says it’s an exciting but challenging time for the airport.“It’s so great to finally see passengers and a buzz back in the terminals,” Mr Woodward said.
“Thousands of families are taking advantage of our open borders and heading off the interstate and overseas. “Others will have family members and loved ones jetting in from interstate for the holiday and Easter period. “The Easter travel rush can be challenging for airports at the best of times, but the pandemic makes the situation even more tricky than usual.
“Airlines, baggage handling contractors, security screening operators, retail and food outlets and the airport itself can face staff shortages at relatively short notice due to Covid and close contact rules.
“It can be difficult to predict the impacts so we’re asking passengers to be patient while we work through these issues. Rest assured our aim is to help you get away to your destination as quickly and as comfortably as possible. “During busy travel times, we always encourage passengers to get to the airport a bit earlier than they normally would. And that’s certainly the case with Easter looming.
“So please arrive as early as you possibly can so that you can move through check-in and security screening and then have time to relax before boarding your flight. “We’ll be working with our airline partners, retailers and security contractors to try to ensure it’s a stress-free experience. “But if there are hold-ups or queues due to Covid impacts, please be patient. We’ll get you through as quickly as we can.”
Mr Woodward also reminded passengers that there have been some important changes since they last travelled. “For those travelling domestically, the process is unchanged and there are no additional requirements when you leave Perth, however, when you return back to WA you will need to have your G2G pass completed and scan the QR codes as you disembark your aircraft.
“For international travellers, it’s important to know well in advance what the requirements are for the country you’re travelling to in terms of vaccinations, pre-flight PCR testing and visas and then when you return to WA, you’ll just need to show your vaccination certificate. “If people have any concerns, I recommend contacting your airline to understand the specific requirements”, he continued.
People are reminded that they should not travel if they are unwell and that facemasks are still required at the airport and onboard aircraft.
The top tips for travelling this school holidays are:
Pre-book parking through the Perth Airport website – Perth Airport – Passengers | Parking
Arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight
Be patient and prepared for queues at check in and security screening
Make sure you have a mask as you’ll need in at the airport and onboard your flight
And if you’re picking someone up, check the flight details on the free Perth Airport app and make use of the free one-hour parking in our Long Term car parks while you wait for them.