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The extension, expected to commence shortly and complete by mid-2025, will add 1,700 long-term parking spaces to the current P2 carpark, removing the existing 30-minute parking area and spaces for vehicles over 2.4 metres in height. Solar panels will also be added to the carpark’s roof.
The current terminal was designed for 1.5 million passengers per year and currently handles 2.6 million, with forecasts of 3.5 million by 2030. The upgrade – to be carried out by Hutchinson Builders – will see the terminal double in size, with works expected to be completed by early 2027.
The new stage, slated to open in 2026, will directly connect Tullamarine Freeway to dedicated pick-up and drop-off areas at the carpark for Terminals 1, 2 and 3, which the airport says will enhance safety and reduce traffic congestion.
Qantas said the added transparency would vindicate its consistent denial of “slot hoarding” accusations, while Virgin and Bonza have labelled the changes "a step in the right direction".
The carrier says Auckland Airport’s multi-billion-dollar redevelopment, to take place over 10 years and be funded in part by increases to aeronautical charges, will lead to “unaffordable airfares for some Kiwis”. It has lodged an official request with NZ Commerce Minister Andrew Bayly for an inquiry.
Under the proposed system announced on Wednesday, Sydney would be allowed 85 flight movements per hour instead of 80 for a maximum of two hours on days where major disruptions occur, which would result in fewer cancellations and overnight delays.
