Rockhampton Airport has experienced a lift off in use, recording 582,034 passengers through the terminal over the past 12 months.

Councillor Neil Fisher said this increase in passenger numbers was welcome news for the whole region.

“This impressive surge in passenger numbers not only signifies a substantial increase over the previous year but also far exceeds the projected passenger numbers of 497,500 for the 2022/23 financial year,” Cr Fisher said.

“We haven’t seen figures like this since before the COVID-19 pandemic which saw a big decline in passengers transiting through the airport due to reduced travel, both domestically and internationally.

“With the Rockhampton Region (LGA) attracting the largest number of visitors in the Central Queensland region for the year ending March 2023, it’s no surprise that we have far surpassed the projected passenger number targets.

“Our increased passenger numbers can be attributed to a combination of factors, including enhanced connectivity, increased flight options, and a strong commitment to maintaining high levels of service quality and customer satisfaction.

“This year has seen the commencement of new airline Bonza for the general passenger market as well as further charters servicing the resources sector.

“Passengers can now fly direct to seven destinations across Queensland and Victoria, including Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns.”

The total of 582,034 passengers for the year compared to 433,877 in 2021-22, 370,625 in 2020-21, 439,691 in 2019-20 and 558,949 passengers back in 2018-19.

Cr Fisher noted recent major upgrades to the terminal building and airport security screening, and said capacity in the long-term car park had also been increased to accommodate the large numbers of passengers flying to new destinations across Australia.