Celebrating the Sunshine Coast’s natural beauty as airport terminal redevelopment dawns

The appointment marks a major milestone in the next stage of growth for one of Australia’s fastest-growing airports. 

The redevelopment will deliver a modern, sustainable and passenger-focused terminal designed to meet future demand, improve efficiency, and enhance the travel experience for locals and visitors alike.  

Populous | Fentress Studios Asia Pacific Head of Aviation Matt Findlay said the terminal design would reflect the unique character of the Sunshine Coast while delivering a seamless passenger experience.

“Our vision for the terminal is to create a space that celebrates the Sunshine Coast’s natural beauty and lifestyle while providing travellers with a modern, efficient and welcoming gateway,” Mr Findlay said. 

“The design prioritises natural light with sweeping views of the runway, allowing passengers to experience the excitement of aircraft arrivals and departures from the comfort of the terminal. 

“By seamlessly integrating security and check-in, enhancing the arrival experience, and reducing the distance between check-in and boarding gates, we’re reimagining the terminal journey to be more intuitive, efficient, and welcoming for every passenger. 

Reimagining the journey from drop-off to take-off, the project will almost double the size of the terminal, increase departure gates from five to seven, and expand the departure lounge threefold. 

Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills said the appointment of McNab and Populous | Fentress Studios reflected the airport’s commitment to working with respected partners to deliver world-class outcomes for the region.  

“The Terminal Redevelopment Project is a major milestone in the airport’s expansion with approximately $170 million being invested to support the future of our airport and our region,” Mr Mills said. 

“We also have Planned Performance as our Project Management Partner, a team that has been with us since the outset of this journey. Their proven expertise, particularly across Australian airport terminal expansions, has been vital in bringing our vision to life and guiding this project forward.” 

Mr Mills said the redevelopment will support local jobs, provide a significant boost to the economy, and strengthen the Sunshine Coast’s role as a key tourism and business gateway.  

“Importantly this project has been shaped by community input, so the terminal reflects local needs and expectations with their insights directly influencing key design features, amenities, and the overall experience. From the look and feel of the terminal to how we welcome and serve travellers, locals helped shape more than just a space, they helped shape a better journey for everyone,” Mr Mills said. 

“The redevelopment will also incorporate expanded retail and food offerings, latest technology for check-in and security, as well as sustainable design features building on existing initiatives.” 

McNab CEO Kunjan Ganatra said the company was proud to bring its expertise to such a transformational project for the region. 

“McNab has been contributing landmark projects to help shape the Sunshine Coast landscape since we opened our Maroochydore office in 2017, and this project is another step in building the region’s future,” Mr Ganatra said.  

“We will see around 2,000 people working on this project, with 90% of trades and subcontractors coming from within our region. Together, we will deliver a terminal our community can be proud of – one that combines smart design, sustainability and a strong sense of place. 

“This is not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about creating a space that will act as an entry statement to the Sunshine Coast and serve generations of locals and visitors, and we’re proud to be a part of it.” 

The Terminal Redevelopment Project will be delivered in stages to minimise disruption to passengers and ensure continuity of operations. The first stage is already underway, with the new outbound checked baggage handling facility scheduled for completion in early 2026, and the full domestic terminal expansion to be completed by 2027. By 2030, Sunshine Coast Airport is forecast to welcome 2.4 million passengers annually.