The Brisbane Airport has officially opened the new $135 million expansion of the northern international terminal and apron, reports infrastructuremagazine.com.au.

The expansion provides an additional 11,000 square metres of space and is set to improve passenger experience with new passenger departure and arrival zones, new walk-out gates, and four new aerobridges. The extension will cater for predicted future growth through integration of new technology and provide more docking and parking space for aircraft.

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) CEO and Managing Director, Julieanne Alroe, said this is just one stage of the airport’s $3.8 billion infrastructure program which includes a new runway set to open in 2020, and aims to position the Brisbane Airport as the country’s chosen gateway for air travel. Forecasts have indicated that passenger numbers will more than double from 22.7 million at the end of the 2017 financial year to 50 million by 2035.

“Last year we had a record seven per cent increase in international passengers and, with numbers expected to rise, our focus is on how Brisbane Airport can continue to play a significant role in meeting forecast demand and stimulating even more,” said Ms Alroe.

In other exciting announcements, Vietjet Air has committed to making Brisbane their first long haul destination with direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City in 2019. The airline is the first low cost carrier to partner with the airport. Ms Alroe says an average of 8% annual growth has been recorded for travel between Queensland and Vietnam over the past five years.

“The economic growth of Vietnam is impressive, with these new services facilitating further education, tourism, and investment and trade opportunities with Vietnam, not only benefiting Brisbane, but regional Queensland as well,” said Ms Alroe.

Philippine Airlines has announced an Australian first, with a four times per week service direct from Brisbane to Manila in the A321neo. The aircraft will offer a flat bed section and nearly double capacity for the route from 38,000 to 70,000 seats per annum.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the announcement is a great step for tourism and trade between the two countries.

“Philippine Airlines has an extensive network in Asia and having another direct service into the region will help Brisbane attract more visitors, grow investment and business opportunities, and boost our economy.”

“The new service will also enhance our reputation as a New World City that has a clear focus on the Asia-Pacific,” said Mr Quirk.

In state tourism news, Tourism and Events Queensland Accommodation Report for March 2018 shows occupancy rates are steady since the same time last year, at 68.1%, average daily rate increased by $9.12 to $169.73, and revenue per available room grew by $5.90 to $115.58 in comparison to March 2017.