A record number of passengers have passed through Hobart Airport in the last three months, marking what the airport claims to be its busiest period ever.
An “unprecedented” 764,417 travellers arrived in Hobart during the first three months of 2024, surpassing the previous January to March 2019 record of 754,597 passengers.
Hobart Airport CEO Norris Carter said the latest data had landed on the eve of one of the busiest school holiday periods for the airport.
Since Easter, an extra 33,000 visitors were forecasted to pass through the terminal by the end of April, with around an extra 10 flights per day being put on for some of the busiest days.
“There’s no question that Tasmania is in hot demand … It’s a great thing for local hotels, restaurants, attractions, shops and the whole state,” he said.
“It’s clear that we’ve really hit our strides again as a must-see travel destination and the airlines have responded with extra flights.”
Currently, only routes to the mainland are available from Hobart Airport after Air New Zealand reduced its direct Auckland to Hobart service to a seasonal one from October onwards.
“For all the families preparing for the fun, but potentially stressful, school holiday travel time, there are some simple things they can do to make it a little bit easier,” he said.
“Check with your airline for all the latest updates on flight times [and] allow plenty of time to park, check-in and clear security.”
“We thank travellers for their patience and wish everyone a great time over the school holiday break.”
The record-breaking figures come as the airport invests $200 million to double the size of the terminal by 2027, adding more seats, enhanced security screening, additional departure gates, expanded baggage carousels and an array of food and retail outlets.
