Brisbane Airport Archives

Landers Pocket to Open Near Brisbane Airport, Bringing Food, Sport, and Entertainment Together

Brisbane Airport is about to welcome a new neighbour that aims to transform the area from a travel hub into a destination in its own right. Landers Pocket, a 16-hectare lifestyle and entertainment precinct, is scheduled to open in November 2025.

Read: New Shared Path to Connect Eagle Farm to Brisbane Airport

Situated a short distance from the airport and DFO Brisbane, Landers Pocket brings together sport, dining and leisure in one large development. It has been described by its developers and hospitality partners as the biggest entertainment precinct to open in Queensland since Howard Smith Wharves, covering an area roughly four times the size of the popular waterfront venue.

The precinct’s anchor tenant will be 4 Pines Brewing Co., which is opening an 800-seat brewery, distillery and gastropub. The venue will include 32 draught taps pouring the company’s core range and limited-release beers brewed on site. The kitchen will offer a menu highlighting local produce and seafood, with food and drinks served across an indoor dining space and a large alfresco beer garden.

Landers Pocket will also include a distillery from Never Never Distilling Co., the South Australian gin producer known for its award-winning spirits. The distillery will craft products on site and form part of the precinct’s dining and beverage experience.

The new development will incorporate the existing Golf Central, located near Brisbane Airport. Golf Central will continue to operate within the precinct, adding new facilities such as party driving bays, a redesigned mini golf course and a high-performance training area for players seeking advanced coaching.

According to project information, Landers Pocket is being designed as a destination that caters to a wide range of visitors, including families, corporate groups and travellers. The venue will be accessible by car and is supported by a large parking area.

Plans for the next stage of the development include a 3,000-person amphitheatre for concerts and major events, along with a 1,000-person lawn designed for festivals, pop-up markets and community activities. These future additions are intended to expand Landers Pocket’s role as a venue for cultural and social gatherings in Brisbane’s north.

Read: Brisbane Airport Takes Flight with $50 Million Australia Post Facility

Developers and operators describe Landers Pocket as a space that celebrates award-winning beer and gin, contemporary golf experiences and elevated dining in a relaxed Queensland setting. The opening marks the beginning of what is expected to become a new chapter in Brisbane’s hospitality and recreation landscape.

Landers Pocket will officially open in early November 2025 near Brisbane Airport.

Published 1-November-2025

Luxury Necklace Among Hundreds of Lost Items Up for Auction at Brisbane Airport

A glittering 18-carat gold and diamond Bvlgari necklace has become the highlight of Brisbane Airport’s annual lost property auction, where hundreds of forgotten items are being sold to raise money for Queensland children’s charities.

Read: Landers Pocket to Open Near Brisbane Airport, Bringing Food, Sport, and Entertainment Together

The luxury piece, officially listed as the Bvlgari 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Pendant Chain Necklace, is currently attracting strong attention from bidders, with a current bid of $8,800 on Lloyds Auctions as of this week. Valued at more than $11,000, it sits at the top of a catalogue featuring over 800 unclaimed items left behind by travellers at Brisbane Airport over the past year.

Hosted online by Lloyds Auctions, the event has become a fixture on Brisbane’s community calendar. With starting bids as low as one dollar, it offers locals and collectors the chance to secure everything from designer handbags and laptops to surfboards, guitars, golf clubs and aviation memorabilia.

Each year, airport staff catalogue thousands of lost items left in terminals, lounges and aircraft cabins. While many are reunited with their owners, a significant number remain unclaimed. After being held for at least three months, these items are passed to Lloyds Auctions, with all proceeds donated to Queensland-based children’s charities.

Last year’s sale raised about $90,000, and this year’s larger collection is expected to surpass that figure. The auction also coincides with Brisbane Airport’s centenary, marking 100 years since its beginnings as a key transport hub for the state.

Among the more unusual listings are decommissioned aircraft seats, aviation signage and pilot uniforms, alongside more familiar travel leftovers such as cameras, watches and tech accessories. The variety of items reflects the scale of an airport that serves tens of thousands of passengers every day, where the rush of travel often leads to misplaced belongings.

For residents of Ascot, Hamilton and nearby suburbs, the airport precinct feels like an extension of their own neighbourhood. The annual auction offers a local glimpse into the stories of travellers passing through — a mix of luxury, loss and rediscovery that ultimately supports community causes.

Beyond the sparkle of the Bvlgari necklace lies a deeper story of shared benefit. What begins as someone’s lost possession transforms into support for children’s programs across Queensland, turning misplaced items into meaningful contributions.

The online auction is open now and closes on Sunday, 2 November. All items, including the sought-after Bvlgari necklace, can be viewed and bid on through the Lloyds Auctions website.

Read: Hands-On Training Takes Flight with Qantas 717 at Brisbane Airport

Whether you’re searching for a luxury find, a piece of aviation history or simply a chance to support a good cause, Brisbane Airport’s lost property auction proves that even forgotten things can find new purpose close to home.

Published 30-October-2025

Hands-On Training Takes Flight with Qantas 717 at Brisbane Airport

Photo Credit: Aviation Australia/Facebook

A retired Qantas Boeing 717 has touched down at Brisbane Airport for the final time, not to carry passengers, but to help train the next generation of aircraft engineers.

Training Future Aviation Workers

The donated aircraft is now housed at Aviation Australia‘s hangar at Brisbane Airport, where it has been repurposed as a real-world classroom. Students from Aviation Australia and the Qantas Group Engineering Academy will have the opportunity to work directly on the plane’s systems, from engines and hydraulics to avionics and safety checks.

The jet, once flown by QantasLink and carrying the registration VH-YQW, concluded its last passenger service in December before being prepared for training. Instead of being scrapped or left in storage, the aircraft has been given a second life that keeps its technology in active use. Aviation Australia noted that having access to a full commercial aircraft provides students with an experience that textbooks and simulations cannot replicate.

For apprentices and trainees, this means entering the workforce with confidence and industry-relevant skills. The ability to practise on a complete, functioning aircraft gives them a level of preparation that shortens the step between training and employment.

A Partnership with Purpose

The initiative is the result of a partnership between Qantas and Aviation Australia, with support from Queensland. While official statements described the move as a boost to the state’s training sector, the focus remained on the long-term value for students and employers in aviation.

Aviation Australia explained that the 717 bridges the gap between classroom learning and industry practice. By training on the same type of systems used in airline fleets, apprentices can meet real-world expectations from the first day of their careers. This aligns with industry efforts to address the global demand for skilled engineers, a shortage that has impacted aviation maintenance operations in recent years.

Community links are also in focus. Aviation High, based in nearby Hendra, provides pathways for secondary students with an interest in aviation. Those students may progress into Aviation Australia programs, where the Boeing 717 will become an integral part of their training journey.

Industry Commitment

Qantas emphasised that it was important for the last of its Boeing 717 fleet to continue serving in a useful role after more than two decades in operation. The airline, which is now introducing new Airbus A220 aircraft to its domestic fleet, sees the investment in training as part of keeping its long-term workforce strong.

Qantas stated that the Brisbane-based aircraft will provide future engineers with practical training in aircraft systems, reinforcing its commitment not just to new aircraft but also to the people who maintain them. The airline noted that this move helps ensure safe and efficient operations for years to come.

Aviation Australia added that the arrival of the 717 secures its place as a leader in aviation training. With the global aviation industry seeking more maintenance engineers, the organisation said Brisbane is well positioned to contribute to international workforce needs.

A Plane with a Legacy

The Boeing 717 type has a long history in Australia. First introduced in 2002 by Impulse Airlines and later absorbed into QantasLink, the aircraft became a regular sight on regional routes. VH-YQW, the aircraft now at Brisbane Airport, served travellers across the country before completing its final flight in 2024.

For many Australians, the 717 represented reliable connections between regional towns and larger cities. Now, the same aircraft will play a different but equally important role—helping to prepare the engineers who will support the next generation of aircraft that carry passengers around the nation.

A Community Focus

Brisbane Airport is already a significant hub for Queensland’s aviation industry, and the arrival of the 717 strengthens its place in education and training. Local students now have access to training that was once only possible through overseas programs or limited simulation facilities.

By embedding the aircraft within a local training program, the initiative keeps opportunities close to home for Queenslanders seeking careers in aviation. It also reinforces Brisbane’s role as both an operational centre and a training hub in the Asia-Pacific region.

Published 18-Sept-2025

New Shared Path to Connect Eagle Farm to Brisbane Airport

Construction is set to start soon on a much-anticipated shared path that will improve access and connectivity for cyclists and pedestrians travelling between Eagle Farm and Brisbane Airport.

Read: Eagle Farm Racecourse Faces Urgent Redevelopment Deadline

Beginning in late May 2025, the 600-metre path will link the existing shared path at Schneider Road to the established bike lane and footpath at Viola Place, closing a known gap in the Moreton Bay Cycleway.

This direct connection will also pass under the Gateway Motorway, providing a safer and more convenient alternative to current detours via Terminal Drive, Lamington Avenue, and Nudgee Road to the west, or Kingsford Smith Drive, Sugarmill Road, and Lomandra Drive to the east.

Designed with both safety and sustainability in mind, the new path will be between 2.5 and 3 metres wide and will feature:

Line marking and wayfinding signage to integrate with the local bikeway network
Solar-powered LED lighting for improved visibility
Fencing for user safety
A new, relocated weir crossing over a waterway
Turfing and landscaping to enhance the surrounding environment

The route has been identified as a principal cycle connection under Queensland’s Principal Cycle Network Plan and is considered a priority for future infrastructure upgrades.

Jointly funded by Brisbane and Queensland’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program, the project is expected to be completed by early 2026. Once finished, the new path will enhance links between major bikeways, while also improving access to Brisbane Airport, the Australian TradeCoast, and the future Northshore Hamilton precinct—home to the main athlete village for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Read: Preliminary Design of New Albion Station Hub Revealed to Brisbane Community

Works will take place from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, Monday to Saturday. Construction will continue for up to eight months, weather and site conditions permitting.

During this time, local residents and commuters may see contractors on site, experience increased noise, dust, or vibrations, and notice construction vehicles accessing the area. For community safety, sections of the project site will be temporarily closed to the public while works are underway.

Published 23-May-2025

Tee Off, Sip Craft Brews: Landers Pocket to Offer Unique Brisbane Experience

In early 2025, the Skygate shopping mall at the Brisbane Airport will welcome Landers Pocket, a groundbreaking sports and entertainment venue that promises to redefine leisure in Queensland.

Read: Brisbane Airport Takes Flight with $50 Million Australia Post Facility

Landers Pocket, situated near DFO, is poised to become a one-stop destination for diverse recreational activities, all under a single expansive roof.

This mammoth complex will feature an impressive array of attractions, including:

A craft brewery and distillery
Golf driving bays with cutting-edge ball tracking technology
Mini golf course
Beer garden
Padel tennis courts
Outdoor amphitheatre

The project brings together two powerhouses in their respective fields. Green Beacon Brewing Company, known for its award-winning craft beers, will oversee the brewery and distillery operations. Meanwhile, Golf Central will manage the golfing facilities, building on their reputation for innovation in the sport.

Richard Shrosbery, General Manager of Green Beacon Brewing Company, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “This announcement is unbelievably exciting for Green Beacon. The new brewery and hospitality venue will ensure we get our award-winning beers into the hands of more beer lovers than ever before.”

The venue is set to become a significant employer in the area, creating numerous job opportunities.

“We want to bring people together to connect, talk, laugh and have fun – and we believe this new precinct will enable that,” Mr Shrosbery said.

On the golfing front, James Cooper, Managing Director at Golf Central, highlighted the venue’s potential to attract a wide range of visitors: “Landers Pocket will deliver a re-imagined golf and entertainment experience to our local, interstate, and international golfers. There will be something for everyone.”

The existing golf driving range will double in size, featuring ball tracking technology in every bay. This expansion, coupled with the diverse offerings, positions Landers Pocket as a key sport and recreation venue for Brisbane, which is currently preparing to host the Olympics.

With its 800-person capacity hospitality area and unique blend of activities, Landers Pocket is expected to draw thousands of visitors each week.

Read: Albion Park Raceway Nixed as 2032 Brisbane Olympics Indoor Sports Venue

The venue represents a significant step forward in Brisbane’s entertainment landscape, offering a multifaceted experience that caters to various interests and age groups.

Published 5-July-2024

Brisbane Airport Takes Flight with $50 Million Australia Post Facility

Photo Credit: Brisbane Airport 2020 Master Plan

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) is revving up for the future with a $5-billion investment plan spread over the next decade. The cornerstone of this ambitious project is a $50-million, cutting-edge facility for Australia Post, their second-largest in Queensland.

This state-of-the-art complex, spanning an impressive 31,800 sqm — or the size of three rugby league fields — will streamline parcel delivery for millions of Queenslanders. Strategically located within the Brisbane Airport Industrial Park, the facility boasts direct airside access, expediting deliveries for time-sensitive packages.

Beyond Parcels: A Multi-faceted Transformation

*Photo Credit: Brisbane Airport 2020 Master Plan*

The $50 million Australia Post facility is just one facet of the broader “Future BNE” programme – a 150-initiative development plan that will significantly enhance Brisbane Airport. Passengers can expect upgrades to both the Domestic and International Terminals, including the initial phase of Terminal 3’s construction.

Additionally, a $90 million car park expansion at the Domestic Airport will provide a much-needed 1,700 new parking spaces, tackling rising capacity issues.

Sustainability at the Forefront

Brisbane Airport Corporation is placing a strong emphasis on sustainability throughout this development. The Australia Post facility is targeting a prestigious 5-Star Green Star certification, prioritising energy and water efficiency, climate resilience, and minimal environmental impact during construction.

Over 1,000 solar panels will be installed to generate renewable energy, aligning with BAC’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2025.

Creating Opportunities and Boosting Efficiency

Construction of the Australia Post parcel facility is estimated to generate approximately 1,500 jobs. Once operational by mid-2025, the centre will boast advanced automation and security features, ensuring a safe and efficient work environment for its 200-strong workforce.

The facility’s strategic location within the Brisbane Airport Industrial Park provides convenient access to air, road, and sea freight, further streamlining logistics.

Brisbane Airport: A Gateway to the Future

The $5 billion investment plan signifies Brisbane Airport’s commitment to growth, sustainability, and world-class service.

This comprehensive programme aligns with the vision outlined in the Australian Government-approved Brisbane Airport 2020 Master Plan, which lays the groundwork for the airport’s development over the next two decades.

Published 2-May-2024

Opening New Horizons: Delta’s Seasonal Route from Brisbane Airport to Los Angeles

Delta has announced a new seasonal route between Los Angeles and Brisbane, set to begin in December 2024 and operate three times a week until March 2025.

Joe Esposito, Delta’s Senior vice president of Network Planning, revealed that this addition to their upcoming summer schedule will offer customers up to 17 weekly flights between Australia and the U.S., marking their most extensive schedule to the South Pacific to date.

Gert-Jan de Graaff, CEO of Brisbane Airport, expressed his pride in becoming Delta’s second destination in Australia. He highlighted Brisbane’s growing appeal to North American visitors, attributing it to factors such as the upcoming Olympics and the popularity of cultural icons like Bluey. De Graaff emphasized the significance of Delta’s move in strengthening ties between the United States and Queensland, boosting the local visitor economy, and opening doors to explore destinations like the Gold Coast, Noosa, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Outback.

Delta’s expansion to Brisbane provides U.S. customers ample opportunities to immerse themselves in Australia’s charm, from exploring Brisbane’s art galleries and scenic cycling trails to venturing to the world’s largest Koala sanctuary. The airline’s network also facilitates easy access to popular Queensland destinations such as the Gold Coast, Noosa, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Outback, enriching the travel experience for passengers.

The Brisbane-to-LAX route will operate on the Airbus A350-900, and offer four product experiences: Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin. Delta One passengers will enjoy enhanced privacy and luxury with fully reclining seats, plush bedding, artisan-made amenity kits, chef-curated meals, and additional comforts. Delta Premium Select will provide passengers with a wider seat, deeper recline, expanded space, and an enhanced dining experience, among other amenities, ensuring a premium travel experience for all passengers.

Delta’s expansion in the South Pacific region reflects its commitment to providing customers with enhanced travel options. The Brisbane-to-LAX route joins a series of investments in the region, including additional seasonal frequencies from Sydney to LAX introduced in summer 2022.

As the leading global carrier at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Delta continues to expand its footprint, offering customers greater connectivity and convenience in the South Pacific.

Published 8-March-2024

Macca’s Takes Flight at Brisbane Airport Domestic Terminal

Hungry travellers passing through Brisbane Airport’s Domestic Terminal will soon have a new dining option to satisfy cravings on the go.

Read: Globite Returns To Brisbane With New Store At Domestic Terminal

Construction is now underway on a new McDonald’s restaurant, complete with a McCafé section, slated to open in mid-2024.

The upcoming McDonald’s will be part of a major revitalisation initiative by Brisbane Airport Corporation aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. McDonald’s is one of the 10 new dining establishments that will be launching over the next few months as part of the airport’s redevelopment.

McDonald’s at the BNE Service Centre (Photo credit: S M Roknul Azam/Google Maps)

According to Martin Ryan, the Executive Commercial General Manager for Brisbane Airport, the company is aware that Brisbane passengers have been eager for a McDonald’s outlet within the terminal.

“If there is one thing BNE travellers have been asking for it’s a Maccas! It has consistently remained the most requested retailer and we couldn’t be more delighted to deliver,” said Mr Ryan.

For many passengers, grabbing a quick McDonald’s bite has become routine before flying. With the opening of McDonald’s, Brisbane Airport travellers can soon pick up coffee or McNuggets without leaving the terminal, helping make travel through the airport even smoother. The iconic golden arches will likely give a taste of home even before takeoff.

As part of the airport’s $5 billion “Future BNE” redevelopment plan, they are bringing exciting new dining establishments into the retail mix that passengers will be excited about.

Other upgrades aimed at improving customer flow and experience include state-of-the-art security systems, more spacious gate lounges with new furnishings, and more.

Travellers will notice a smoother journey through security with this major terminal upgrade. Cutting-edge screening technology and processes will be implemented to enhance both safety and convenience.

Passengers using the Skywalk entrance with carry-on luggage only will be able to access the Domestic Terminal directly after online check-in. This allows travellers to keep their personal belongings packed as they pass through new state-of-the-art scanners.

Read: Sime Darby Motors to Arrive at Brisbane Airport Development Soon

The new McDonald’s outlet will complement the existing 24-hour McDonald’s located at the BNE Service Centre, a short drive from the airport terminals.

Published 13-December-2023

Latest Data: More Flights Have Been Directed Over Water as Part of Aircraft Noise Mitigation Measures

Photo credit: Facebook / Brisbane Airport

Recent Airservices Australia data showed a significant increase in flights being directed over the waters of Moreton Bay as part of noise mitigation measures. Aircraft noise has been the subject of complaints from impacted residents in Ascot and other suburbs under the flight path since the new runway opened in 2020.

The latest Airservices Australia showed a 35 per cent increase in SODROPS, a mode of operation that directs aircraft landing and taking off over water to reduce the impact of aircraft noise.

“Brisbane Airport Corporation welcomes Airservices Australia data showing a rise in SODPROPS mode because it directs all flights over water and shields communities from the impact of aircraft noise, while still delivering Queensland the significant benefits travel and trade offers,” Stephen Beckett, Brisbane Airport Head of Public Affairs said.

“We look forward to an expansion of Simultaneous Opposite Direction Parallel Runway Operations as Airservices Australia methodically and safely implements the independent Trax International recommendations.”

The SODPROPS trial has been expanded since it was launched in 2022, from between the hours of 10 pm to 6 am, it now includes Saturdays 6am-8am, 8pm-10pm and Sundays 6am-8am.

The expansion has since resulted in a 30 per cent rise (data between 9 July and 9 November 2022) or an increase of 137 hours, compared to the numbers recorded between 9 March and 8 July 2022. That is equal to additional 799 aircraft flights directed over water instead of flying over the city.

“The trial reflects Airservices’ commitment to improving noise outcomes for the Brisbane community, where safe and operationally feasible,” an Airservices Australia spokesperson said.

Latest Data: More Flights Have Been Directed Over Water as Part of Aircraft Noise Mitigation Measures — Photo credit: Brisbane Airport / .bne.com.au

Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance, however, was not as enthusiastic with the figures. They argue that whilst there was an increase in aircraft movements over the water, “there has also been a steep increase in the post-COVID recovery, which likely saw 30% more aircraft movements over the city, too.”

“…BFPCA will verify Airservices’ misleading claims once BITRE data for these time periods becomes available,” BFPCA’s statement said.

“BFPCA found that while SODPROPS for weekend use has gone up slightly, total SODPROPS movements for 24 hours have gone down. The number of planes over our homes have actually increased as well and getting back to pre-COVID levels.

“This means we still see only 52% over the Bay for a 24 hour period since opening of the new runway or 48% operating over the city. An overall increase of 2% from when only the Legacy runway was in use.

“Airservices seems to take the view that SODPROPS is limited by environmental factors and capacity constraints. BFPCA suggests that it is the number of flight movements that should be limited by the ability to safely use SODPROPS. That is how this project was sold to the community by Brisbane Airport and Airservices.”

Airservices Australia plans to increase SODROPS mode with an increased capacity, enhanced decision-making criteria and flight path changes for daytime operations, which have a proposed completion by Q4 2023 at the year’s end.

Published 7-February-2023

New Qantas Flight Training Centre Lands at Brisbane Airport

Photo Credit: Pexels

Qantas has unveiled its new flight training facility adjacent to Brisbane Airport that can accommodate up to 900 pilots a year and will also be accessible to other airlines in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Qantas Group Flight Training Centre, which houses four state-of-the-art aircraft simulators – Boeing 737, 767F and 787 Dreamliner and Dash-8 Q400 plus a Q400 flight training device, used to be located in Sydney. The facility had to be moved to Brisbane to make way for the major road work taking place around Sydney Airport.

Queensland is currently home to more than 500 Qantas pilots who will now have access to the new Brisbane-based training facility for their recurrent training, along with other pilots from neighbouring states and future recruits.

The new training facility will also complement the pilot academy which recently opened in Toowoomba. The new academy which can train up to 250 pilots per year can now have its student pilots go straight to the new facility instead of completing their training program in Sydney.

“We are pleased this state-of-the-art facility in Brisbane will mean a pilot can start their career at the Toowoomba Pilot Training Academy, complete their training at the Brisbane simulator centre and then embark on a Qantas Group career flying from their Queensland home base to everywhere from Longreach to Los Angeles,” Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said

The facility will also be opened to other airlines in the Asia-Pacific region, which means that small flag carriers can now take advantage of the new training facility’s simulators for new-recruit training, tenured pilots’ upskilling, and ongoing training.

The transfer of the training facility to Brisbane Airport was made possible through the State Government’s support. Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said that the partnership brings “extra aviation training capability to Queensland and creates new employment opportunities for training pilots and simulator technicians, including 18 new direct operational jobs.”

“This suite of flight training simulators reinforces Queensland’s pre-eminence as a destination of choice for the aerospace and aviation support industries,” Mr Dick said.

“In a state as vast as Queensland, with our proximity to Asia and the Pacific, aviation industries are a natural fit. Our government is determined to make the most of our competitive advantages when it comes to attracting aerospace companies and aerospace jobs, right across Queensland.

“These simulators mean Queensland-based flight crew don’t have to leave the state to complete their ongoing training.”