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Canberra Airport CBR Airport Traveler Guide

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CBR Airport Insights & Guide

Key CBR Airport Topics:

Getting to Know CBR Airport

Discover Canberra Airport, Australia's capital city's entry point, known for its striking circular design that simplifies navigation. This concise guide equips you with essential information for a seamless journey, whether for business or leisure. Dive into our guide for insights on flight statuses, terminal facilities, parking, dining, and shopping. Your hassle-free travel starts here. For a detailed overview, explore iFly's Comprehensive Airport Guide.

iFly Tip: Make your family trip easier with our flying with children tips.

CBR Airport has one main terminal building with two levels. The ground level is where arrivals are processed and baggage claim is located. The upper level is for departures and houses airline check-in counters, security screening, and departure gates.

The terminal has four gates in total, with two gates located on the ground level and two gates on the upper level. The gates are not assigned to specific airlines, so it is important to check the flight information display screens to determine which gate your flight will depart from.

Major airlines that operate out of the airport include Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Tigerair Australia. These airlines can be found on the upper level of the terminal building.

There are a variety of food and retail options available at Canberra Airport, including cafes, restaurants, and shops. Services such as currency exchange, ATMs, and a post office are also available. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Canberra Airport has only one terminal, so passengers do not need to worry about connecting between terminals. All gates, shops, and facilities are located in the same building, which makes it easy for travelers to navigate and find their way around. The terminal is equipped with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and various dining and shopping options. Passengers can also take advantage of the airport's transportation services, such as taxis, rental cars, and shuttle buses, to get to their next destination.

Tips from CBR Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Canberra Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from CBR-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"The circular layout of CBR makes it really easy to find your way around. Just remember, arrivals and baggage claim are on the ground floor, while departures are upstairs. Keep an eye on the flight information screens for gate updates." — Emma J., Queanbeyan, NSW, March 2024

"If you're flying with Qantas or Virgin Australia, head straight to the upper level for check-in. The signage is clear, but the terminal can get busy, so give yourself extra time during peak hours." — Liam T., Gungahlin, ACT, January 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The airport bus is a cost-effective way to get to the city center, especially if you're traveling alone. It runs regularly and takes about 20 minutes to reach the city." — Anika R., Belconnen, ACT, February 2024

"I always book a ride-share in advance during busy times. It's often cheaper than a taxi, and you can avoid the queue at the arrivals area." — Raj S., Tuggeranong, ACT, May 2024

Parking

"For short trips, the covered parking is a good choice. It's a bit more expensive, but your car stays protected from the weather. If you're parking for longer, consider the off-airport lots with shuttle services." — Mia W., Woden Valley, ACT, April 2024

"The cell phone waiting area is a lifesaver if you're picking someone up. You can wait there for free until your passenger calls you to say they're ready." — Oliver H., Weston Creek, ACT, June 2024

Inside the Airport

"Hudsons Coffee is my go-to for a quick caffeine fix before a flight. Their pastries are a great snack to take on board, too." — Zoe B., Molonglo Valley, ACT, August 2024

"Don't miss the Snowy Mountains Gourmet Pizza if you have some time before your flight. They have some great vegetarian options, and the staff is really friendly." — Ethan K., Jerrabomberra, NSW, September 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) as soon as you arrive. It's the best way to keep track of any changes to your flight schedule." — Sophie M., Yass, NSW, October 2024

"Download your airline's app for real-time updates on your flight. It can save you a lot of stress if there are any unexpected changes." — Lucas P., Murrumbateman, NSW, July 2024

iFly Tip: Plan ahead and avoid delays with insights from our airport wait times guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

Canberra Airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. The airport has designated curbside areas for passenger drop-off and pick-up, but there are restrictions on parking in these areas. Drivers are not allowed to leave their vehicles unattended, and vehicles cannot be parked for more than two minutes. If you need more time to drop off or pick up passengers, you can use the short-term parking lot located near the terminal building.

If you are picking up passengers and want to avoid circling the airport, you can use the cell-phone waiting area. This area is located near the airport entrance and provides a convenient place to wait for arriving passengers. You can park your car for free and wait until your passengers are ready to be picked up. Once you receive a call from your passengers, you can drive to the curbside area to pick them up.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're driving to CBR, you'll find several parking options available to suit your needs. There are both short-term and long-term parking options available, including covered and uncovered lots and garages.

If you're waiting to pick up an arriving passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas located near the terminal for your convenience. These areas allow you to wait in your car until your passenger is ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available at CBR Airport, with designated spots located in all parking areas. If you require special assistance, contact the airport in advance to arrange for assistance with parking and getting to the terminal.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots typically offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy to get to your terminal without breaking the bank.

Transportation Options

Canberra Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help travelers get to their destinations:

  • Car Rentals: Major car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty have facilities located at Canberra Airport. These services are conveniently situated in the Arrivals Hall, making it easy for travelers to pick up and drop off their rental vehicles. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak travel periods.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are readily available outside the arrivals area, with designated drop-off areas near the terminal. Fares are metered and vary depending on the destination. A typical fare to Canberra's city center is approximately AUD 25-30, and the journey takes around 15 minutes. It's advisable to book a taxi in advance during peak hours to avoid waiting times.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Ola are available for pickup outside the arrivals area. These services offer a more budget-friendly option for travelers. Be sure to check for any restrictions regarding luggage and passenger capacity with the service provider before booking.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles provide a more affordable transportation option, offering door-to-door service to hotels and other destinations in the Canberra area. Pickup areas are located outside the arrivals area, and fares vary depending on the destination. It's recommended to book shuttle services in advance to ensure availability.
  • Public Transportation: The Canberra Airport Bus services the airport, providing regular service to the city center and other destinations in the area. The bus stop is located just outside the terminal, and tickets can be purchased on board or online. The journey to the city center takes approximately 20 minutes, with fares starting at AUD 5 for a single ticket.

iFly Tip: Skip the hassle of removing shoes and belts with TSA PreCheck.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be tiring, especially after a long flight. That's why finding a comfortable and convenient hotel near the airport is a top priority for many travelers. We've rounded up some of the best hotels that offer a blend of comfort, convenience, and luxury. From the chic and upscale Ramada Diplomat Canberra to the serene Accommodate Canberra - Northshore, these hotels ensure a comfortable and convenient stay. Ready to book now? View all Canberra Airport Hotels including rates, on a map.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

CBR offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy. For a quick bite, head to Hudsons Coffee located in the departure lounge. They offer a range of delicious coffee and pastries to start your day off right. Another great option is the Limestone Cafe, located before security. They offer a range of breakfast and lunch options, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices.

If you're looking for something more substantial, head to the Snowy Mountains Gourmet Pizza located in the arrivals area. They offer a range of delicious pizzas, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Another great option is the Capital Brewing Co, located in the departure lounge. They offer a range of craft beers and delicious pub-style food.

When it comes to shopping, CBR Airport has a variety of stores to choose from. For duty-free shopping, head to JR/Duty-Free located in the departure lounge. They offer a range of products, including cosmetics, fragrances, and liquor. For souvenirs and gifts, head to Australian Way located in the arrivals area. They offer a range of Australian-made products, including clothing, accessories, and homewares.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at the airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Canberra Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the terminal building for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Canberra Airport features designated children's play areas located throughout the airport.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is located in the terminal building. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
  • Airport Lounges: Canberra Airport features the Virgin Australia Lounge, located in the departures area. The lounge offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating areas to relax before your flight. Additionally, the lounge provides a quiet space with workstations and shower facilities for those needing to freshen up before a long journey.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is essential to stay updated on your flight status to avoid any inconvenience or delays. At CBR Airport, passengers can easily access their flight status by utilizing multiple resources.

One of the most convenient ways to check your flight status is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Another way to stay informed is by downloading your airline's mobile phone app. These apps allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications. It is essential to ensure that the app is up-to-date and notifications are enabled to receive timely updates.

Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at the airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com. This website provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information, ensuring that passengers are always informed.

By utilizing these resources, passengers can stay informed about their flight status and avoid any inconvenience or delays. Safe travels!

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Canberra Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Canberra Airport (CBR) is the main airport serving Canberra, the capital city of Australia.
  • Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include Qantas Airways, Virgin Australia, and Rex Regional Express. For a full list of airlines, visit the CBR Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Canberra Airport handles approximately 10,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 120 to 150 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from CBR are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Gold Coast.
  • Hub Status: Canberra Airport serves as a hub for QantasLink and Virgin Australia.

Airport History

Canberra Airport, located in the capital city of Australia, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1924: The airport was established as a small landing ground for the Royal Australian Air Force.
  • 1926: The first commercial flight took off from the airport, operated by Qantas.
  • 1939-1945: During World War II, the airport was used as a military base by the Australian and United States armed forces.
  • 1962: The airport was officially opened as a civilian airport, with a new terminal building and runway.
  • 1986: A major expansion project was completed, including a new international terminal and runway extension.
  • 2003: The airport was privatised and sold to a consortium of investors.
  • 2013: A new terminal building was opened, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and services for passengers.
  • 2016: The airport was renamed to Canberra International Airport, reflecting its growing importance as a gateway to the capital city and the wider region.

Today, Canberra International Airport serves over 3 million passengers per year, with flights to destinations across Australia and around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Canberra Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Canberra Airport Q&A

There is only one main terminal at CBR, which handles both domestic and international flights.
You can take the airport bus, which takes about 20 minutes, or opt for a taxi, which is faster but more expensive. Ride-share services like Uber and Ola are also available.
Yes, the Virgin Australia Lounge is available in the departures area, offering complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating.
CBR offers short-term and long-term parking options, including covered and uncovered lots. Off-airport parking with shuttle services is also available for more economical options.
Yes, major car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty have facilities located in the Arrivals Hall.
Yes, CBR provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
Options include Hudsons Coffee for quick bites, Limestone Cafe for breakfast and lunch, and Capital Brewing Co for craft beers and pub-style food.
You can check your flight status using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) throughout the airport or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com.
Yes, nearby hotels include the Ramada Diplomat Canberra and Accommodate Canberra - Northshore, offering comfort and convenience for travelers.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with disabilities. It's recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require assistance.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport