Queenstown Airport Guide
ZQN/ NZQN
Location
Queenstown Airport is located in Frankton, about 8 kilometers from Queenstown’s bustling town center, nestled along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps. Its stunning location makes it one of the most scenic airports in the world. Visitors arriving here are only minutes away from adventure hubs and luxury resorts. Popular nearby attractions include the Skyline Gondola, which offers panoramic views of Queenstown, and outdoor experiences like jet boating on the Shotover River, bungee jumping, and vineyard tours in Gibbston Valley. The airport’s setting makes it a perfect launchpad for exploring the lakes and mountains of Central Otago.
Passenger Traffic in Queenstown Airport ZQN/ NZQN
Queenstown Airport experienced a robust recovery in the 2023 financial year, with total passenger movements (arrivals and departures) reaching 2,370,488. This figure surpasses pre-pandemic levels, reflecting a steady return of both domestic and international travelers. The airport's net profit after tax was reported at $22.2 million, and a record annual dividend of $15.54 million was declared for shareholders.
Airport Facilities at Queenstown Airport ZQN/ NZQN
ATMs,
Baggage Storage,
Bathrooms,
Bikes,
Currency Exchange,
Drinking Fountains,
First Aid,
Lost Property,
Parenting Room & Services,
Phones & SIM Cards,
Police,
Post Box,
Prayer Rooms,
Smoking Area,
WIFI.
Queenstown Airport, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Southern Alps, is one of the most scenic airports in the world. With aviation activity in the area dating back to the 1930s, the airport has transformed into a gateway for adventure tourism and alpine escapes. The architecture resonates with the natural surroundings, featuring timber accents and panoramic glass windows that showcase the mountain vistas. It has a single terminal that manages both domestic and international flights, offering streamlined services and a cozy yet modern ambiance. The airport operates a single runway, 05/23, measuring approximately 1,891 meters, which requires precise pilot navigation due to terrain and weather, making every landing a remarkable feat.
Queenstown Airport Terminals :
Queenstown Airport operates a single terminal that accommodates both domestic and international flights. The terminal has undergone multiple expansions since the 1990s to meet the growing passenger demand, now featuring a single level with nine gates. The airport utilizes a single runway, 05/23, approximately 1,891 meters in length. Due to the surrounding mountainous terrain and variable weather conditions, pilots require specialized training to navigate approaches and departures safely.
Queenstown Airport Size :
Queenstown Airport, though smaller in scale compared to the major airports, covers around 133 hectares and serves over 2.3 million passengers a year. Nestled within the alpine region of Otago, the airport's location adds to its appeal but limits large-scale expansion due to surrounding mountains and residential areas. Despite its size, the airport is highly efficient, especially during peak ski and holiday seasons. The compact terminal and apron areas are carefully designed to maximize space and facilitate quick turnaround times for both domestic and international flights.
Airlines Operating in Queenstown Airport ZQN/ NZQN
- • Air New Zealand
- • Jetstar
- • Qantas
- • Virgin Australia
- • Air Chathams
- • Sounds Air.