The new terminal is all part of the $5 billion One Airport Master Plan, which includes a new parallel runway, two multi-storey car parks and an airport hotel.
While the New Terminal embraces a more sophisticated appearance, the driving force behind the concept design has been improving functionality, capacity, and efficiency for passengers and airlines.
Currently, Perth Airport is split between two separate terminal precincts. Terminals 1 and 2 handle a mix of international, domestic and regional flights, while Terminals 3 and 4 are mainly used by Qantas and Jetstar, located about 8 km down the road. The new 22-gate terminal will consolidate commercial flight operations, removing the need for passengers to travel between the airport’s two precincts when catching connecting flights.
The designs were developed with Australian architecture firm Woods Bagot. The “Big Sky/ Deep Earth” theme draws on the relationship between Western Australia’s vast sky and the ancient land of Whadjuk Noongar Country. Under this concept, the design aims to embed the essence of “cultural knowledge, local landscapes, climate, light and a spirit of resourcefulness into the architecture, according to a media release from Perth Airport, with sustainability and accessibility for all central to the design.
Additional design features include increased retail and dining venues, sensory rooms and multi-faith rooms, amenities for children and families, and a landscaped courtyard.
Perth Airport CEO Jason Waters said the design aimed to improve functionality while reflecting its Western Australian surroundings. “A good airport moves passengers efficiently, but a great airport also gives them a sense of the destination they are in – this design delivers both outcomes,” Mr Waters said. “We have aimed high when it comes to building sustainability into the design, as well as ensuring accessibility for people of all ages, ability and background.”
“This multi-billion-dollar investment further strengthens Perth’s position as Australia’s Western Gateway, an important role given that 95 per cent of visitors to the State arrive by air,” Premier Roger Cook said.
Preliminary work is predicted to start on the new terminal within 12 months.