In May 2024, Australian domestic commercial aviation carried 5.13 million passengers, marking a 2.8% increase from May 2023, indicative of a steady recovery and rising air travel demand. Over the past 12 months leading to September 2023, the Australian aviation network saw a 13% growth, driven by the expansion of regional services and increased travel demand along the East Coast. Australia’s strategic geographical position as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region enhances its role in international travel and trade, supported by an extensive network of air routes that facilitate business, tourism, and cargo transport. The aviation sector is a vital contributor to Australia’s GDP, connecting dispersed population centers and providing essential links for rural and remote communities. Here are 5 of the airports that provide this global position:
- Sydney International Airport (IATA: SYD, ICAO: YSSY)
- Melbourne International Airport (IATA: MEL, ICAO: YMML)
- Brisbane International Airport (IATA: BNE, ICAO: YBBN)
- Perth International Airport (IATA: PER, ICAO: YPPH)
- Adelaide International Airport (IATA: ADL, ICAO: YPAD)
International Flight Operations at Sydney International Airport (IATA: SYD, ICAO: YSSY)
Sydney International Airport (IATA: SYD, ICAO: YSSY) features three runways. The primary runway, 16R/34L, measures 3,962 meters in length and 45 meters in width, accommodating large aircraft for long-haul international flights. The secondary parallel runway, 16L/34R, is 2,438 meters long and 45 meters wide, supporting both domestic and international operations. The cross runway, 07/25, spans 2,530 meters in length and 45 meters in width, providing additional capacity and flexibility for various wind conditions.
The airport’s Terminal 1, designated for international flights, is the largest terminal, encompassing three levels. The ground floor handles arrivals, including customs and baggage claim areas. The first floor is dedicated to departures, featuring check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. The second floor houses various amenities, including business lounges, dining options, and retail shops. Terminal 2, primarily for domestic flights, has two levels with arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the first floor. It includes multiple gates, check-in counters, and baggage claim areas. Terminal 3, the smallest, serves regional flights with similar facilities on two levels.
International Flight Operations at Melbourne International Airport (IATA: MEL, ICAO: YMML)
Melbourne International Airport (IATA: MEL, ICAO: YMML) features two primary runways. The main runway, 16/34, measures 3,657 meters in length and 60 meters in width, accommodating large aircraft for long-haul international flights. The secondary runway, 09/27, is 2,286 meters long and 45 meters wide, supporting both domestic and international operations. These runways are equipped with advanced lighting and navigation aids to ensure safe and efficient aircraft movements under various weather conditions.
The airport comprises four terminals. Terminal 2, designated for international flights, includes 14 gates and spans multiple levels. The ground floor handles arrivals, including customs and baggage claim areas. The first floor is dedicated to departures, featuring check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. Terminal 1, primarily for domestic flights, has multiple gates and similar facilities, including check-in counters and baggage claim areas. Terminal 3, also for domestic flights, includes various gates and amenities. Terminal 4, the newest addition, serves budget domestic flights and features modern facilities across two levels.
Australian International Airport Slot Coordination
A slot refers to the permission granted to operate at a specific arrival or departure time on a designated date at an airport. While it is not route-specific, local rules may apply. Coordination is required when the demand for new slot requests surpasses the airport’s capacity. Airports like Sydney (YSSY) and Perth (YPPH) require slots for both arrivals and departures, while Brisbane (YBBN) only requires arrival slots if the previous departure point is within 120 nautical miles.
Slot requests should be submitted By Just Aviation Team through Airport Coordination Australia via email. If a requested slot time is not available, the coordination office will propose the next closest available option. Additionally, ground handlers can adjust slot times with a verbal request made after 6 pm the night before operations. Slot deviations are permitted within specific limits: ±15 minutes for domestic flights and ±30 minutes for international flights. To avoid peak times, it is advisable to steer clear of Sydney (YSSY) between 0700-0900 and 1600-1900 local time, and Perth (YPPH) from 0500-1000 local time, Monday through Friday.
Requirements and Documents for Slot Requests
- Documentation:
- Include the tail number, type of flight, and schedule in the slot request.
- No fees are associated with Australian airport slots.
- An airport slot number will be provided but does not need to be included in the flight plan remarks.
- Noise Curfews and Restrictions:
- Stage 2 aircraft need waivers to operate in major Australian cities.
- Sydney (YSSY) and Adelaide (YPAD) have a curfew from 2300-0600 local time.
- Gold Coast (YBCG) has night restrictions for larger aircraft.
- Request Timing:
- It’s best to request slots early, ideally seven days in advance, as slots may impact parking, especially for larger aircraft.
- Additional Requirements:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Completed Incoming Passenger Card for arriving passengers.
- Valid visa for non-Australian citizens.
Reach out to Just Aviation ahead of time for all your Australian airport slot requirements, and we’ll take care of the necessary documentation to ensure seamless flight operations.
Overflight Permits in Australia’s International Operations
In Australia, overflight permits are not required for charter or private non-revenue flights, which distinguishes the country’s charter (non-scheduled commercial) permit process. However, charter flights must secure a formal Charter Permission from the Australia Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
This process demands a lead time of six to eight weeks and requires specific documentation, including the Air Operator Certificate (AOC), worldwide insurance, and the Australian Transport Security Plan (TSP). While the official lead time is five working days, CASA may expedite permit approvals within this period at its discretion. The permit fee is 480 AUD for low-capacity aircraft and 570 AUD for high-capacity aircraft. Operators may seek assistance from third-party providers for the application process, and once a charter permit is issued, amendments are generally manageable.
Landing Permits in Australia’s International Operations
Landing permits are typically unnecessary for private non-revenue operators in Australia, except under particular circumstances. Operators of hush-kitted Stage 3 aircraft landing at designated airports must secure a Department of Transport & Environment (DTE) permit, which costs 480 AUD and requires a five-day lead time. Additionally, frequent private non-revenue operators with high passenger volumes may need a landing permit from the DTE, with a lead time of 10 working days and no associated fees.
For charter flights, classified as non-scheduled commercial, operators must obtain an “aircraft entry” by completing Form 094. Although this is not a conventional landing permit, it enables the Australian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to review the flight details and evaluate any potential cabotage concerns. In some cases, Prior Permission Required (PPR) may be necessary for parking, with assistance from ground handlers, especially at Brisbane Airport, where commercial flights are given priority, potentially causing delays for private non-revenue operations.
Australia’s airspace is currently managed within a single Flight Information Region (FIR) with ICAO codes “YBBB” and “YMMM.” The Australian Civil Aviation Authority operates from 2000Z to 0400Z, Monday to Friday, with weekends observed on Saturday and Sunday. For all your Australian flight permit requirements, the expert team at Just Aviation is here to assist, ensuring a smooth and efficient application process. Contact them for professional support.
Ground Handling Operations at Australian International Airports
Sydney International Airport (YSSY), Melbourne International Airport (YMML), and Brisbane International Airport (YBBN) all feature advanced ground handling facilities, including marshaling systems, ground power units (GPUs), and hydrant refueling systems supporting both AVGAS and Jet A1.
These airports have automated cargo handling systems, temperature-controlled storage for perishable goods, and specialized equipment for oversized and heavy cargo. Maintenance facilities at these airports are equipped for both routine checks and extensive repairs, with hangars capable of accommodating various aircraft sizes. Passenger handling services are comprehensive, covering baggage handling, customs and immigration assistance, and dedicated facilities for VIP passengers. Additionally, all three airports have deicing facilities to ensure safe operations during adverse weather conditions.
Experience effortless flight support services at Australia’s International Airports with Just Aviation. We cover every detail, from streamlined flight planning and affordable fuel options to swift permits and thorough ground support. By working closely with flight and cabin crews, along with ground handling teams, we ensure a hassle-free and efficient journey at Australia’s International Airports. Contact us today and trust Just Aviation for outstanding service at competitive prices.