Hobart Airport has picked up a national industry award as its $200 million terminal expansion moves into its final stages and passenger numbers hit record levels.
The airport won the Airport Retail and Commercial Business Excellence Award at the 2026 Australian Airports Association Retail and Commercial Forum in Cairns, recognising changes to its retail offering, facilities and passenger services as part of its major redevelopment.
Terminal retail space has tripled as part of the transformation, rolling 12-month passenger numbers have surpassed 2.9 million for the first time, with Hobart Airport saying it is now the second fastest-growing airport in Australia for annual domestic passenger growth.
Hobart Airport Chief Financial and Commercial Officer Kate Gillies said the award reflected the work done to expand the airport’s facilities and services.
“This award reflects the dedication of our team and partners as we continue to improve the Hobart Airport experience,” she said.
“We’ve taken a long-term approach, investing in facilities, partnerships and a broader range of products and services that improve the journey for our passengers while creating value for Tasmania.”
Gillies said the expanded retail offering includes more Tasmanian businesses, while new ground transport options and commercial partnerships have been introduced as part of the redevelopment.
“We’re proud of this recognition, but we’re only part way through our journey and we’re excited about what’s still to come,” she said.
Since 2022, the airport has been delivering upgrades to accommodate wide-bodied aircraft, expanding its terminal and investing across the precinct.
The $200 million terminal expansion is about two-thirds complete and is due to be finished in early 2028, with new arrivals and departure areas already open.
Hobart Airport will host the Australian Airports Association Retail and Commercial Forum in 2027.
“We’re delighted to welcome airport industry leaders from across Australia to Hobart in 2027,” Gillies said.
“The timing couldn’t be better, with our redevelopment set to be even further advanced by then, giving delegates the opportunity to experience firsthand how we’re creating an airport that better connects people with Tasmania.”
