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What to Expect at Security Screening
All passengers, including friends and family entering the secure departure lounge, will go through security screening.
Our Aviation Protection Officers follow strict Australian Government regulations to keep the terminal safe and secure. If you have any questions during the process, speak to our staff, they're here to help you through the journey and get you on your way.
Security Screening is Safe
The security screening body scanners at Townsville Airport use non-ionising millimetre wave technology, like a mobile phone. It is not like an x-ray. The body scanners do not pose any known health risks to people and there are no known safety concerns for people with active implantable medical devices, such as pacemakers or continuous glucose monitoring devices.
X-ray machines are used to scan personal items and carry-on bags. Random explosive trace detection checks may take place.
Tell Security if You Need Assistance
Before the screening process begins, tell the screening officer if you need assistance or if you have a prosthetic, medical device or medical equipment. If you feel uncomfortable during the security screening process or have any questions, then please talk to the officer or ask to speak with their supervisor.
Helpful Links:
Connecting to an International Flight?
If you're travelling overseas after your flight from Townsville, you’ll need to follow additional international regulations around:
- Carry-on liquids and duty-free items
- Australian customs and quarantine rules
- Duty-free limits for arriving into other countries
Helpful Links:
- Australian Border Force
Travelling overseas: liquids, aerosols, and gels guidelines
- Australia's duty-free allowances
- Department of Agriculture – Quarantine Info
- Home Affairs – Entering and leaving Australia
For more tips, check out the Australian Government’s Travel Secure website or call the Department of Agriculture for quarantine info on 1800 900 090.
Need Help?
Got questions about your journey through Townsville Airport? We've gathered the top FAQs to help you cruise through the terminal with ease.
Which airline lounges are available?
Townsville Airport offers a Qantas Club for eligible passengers.
How do I find out if my flight is delayed?
Check the Flight Information Display Screens on our website or throughout the terminal. You can also contact your airline directly.
What’s the carry-on luggage weight limit?
Carry-on luggage weight limits vary depending on your airline. This is often included in your flight itinerary or booking details. For further clarification, contact your airline directly.
What are the opening hours for shops at the airport?
Most shops operate in line with flight schedules. For the most accurate opening hours, we recommend checking our individual store listings.
Does Townsville Airport offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes, Townsville Airport offers free Wi-Fi to its passengers and visitors, available throughout the terminal. Choose to log in via your social media account or email and opt in to receive updates from the airport and airline sales.
Is the airport open 24 hours?
Townsville Airport is open from 4:30 am to 11:30 pm every day. The terminal is not open 24 hours a day. For security reasons, the terminal is in “lockdown” between 11:30 pm and 4:30 am. Passengers and other persons are not permitted to enter the terminal during this time or sleep in the terminal overnight.
Am I able to leave luggage or keys for an incoming/outgoing passenger to collect?
Due to security regulations, luggage or keys cannot be left in the terminal for collection. The best alternative is to hire a locker and provide your friend or family member with the access code.
How early do I need to be at the airport for my flight?
Most domestic airlines require you to be at the check-in counter at least 60 minutes before departure. Be sure to check the guidelines provided by your airline.
If I have a disabled sticker on my vehicle, can I stop in front of the terminal?
Drivers dropping off or picking up a passenger with a disability kerbside at the front of the terminal must remain with the vehicle. This is due to increased security procedures implemented at all airports throughout Australia. Townsville Airport must abide by the security regulations determined by the Commonwealth Government.
There are two accessible bays provided in the pick-up/drop-off area which are signed, enabling a driver to collect and drop off for a maximum of 15 minutes. The driver must remain with the vehicle and have a valid permit displayed on the vehicle. If your passenger requires assistance to enter the terminal by a member of our Kerbside Concierge Team, please call 1800 225 878 to arrange prior to arrival.
Drivers of vehicles displaying a disabled permit sticker must remain with their vehicle; they cannot leave their vehicle unattended.
Should the driver need to leave the vehicle to assist the passenger, a number of alternate options are available:
- Option 1: Arrange for a third person to travel to the airport with the driver to escort the passenger(s) with a disability into the terminal while the driver remains with the vehicle.
- Option 2: Park your vehicle in the accessible car spaces located in the car park near the terminal. If you enter and exit the car park within 10 minutes, it’s free.
- Option 3: Use public transport options like taxis, hire cars or shuttle buses, which can drop you off directly at the terminal.
Are there accessible car spaces available at the airport?
Accessible car parking for passengers with accessibility requirements is provided within all car parks at Townsville Airport. These spaces are reserved for passengers with accessibility requirements, and for this reason, vehicles parking in these designated areas must display a valid Disability Parking Permit on the vehicle while parked.
What can I do before arriving at the airport if I have a passenger with a disability?
To request assistance, contact your airline directly when making your reservation and let them know if you’re travelling with a passenger who has a disability. This allows the airline to provide guidance and, if needed, make suitable arrangements at the airport or on the flight.
Please refer to your airline’s Conditions of Carriage for more information.
Does Townsville Airport have facilities that support passengers with a disability?
Yes, Townsville Airport is committed to supporting passengers with accessibility requirements. A Disability Access Facilitation Plan outlines the services and facilities available to assist passengers and ensure a more comfortable journey.
