Major changes to Terminal 1 access as Perth Airport prepares to open P1 transport hub

Construction of Perth Airport’s new transport hub, P1, is nearing completion with trials underway and a public information campaign starting this week.

The new P1 transport hub will become the main access point for Terminal 1, replacing the outgrown forecourt road that has served the airport in various forms since 1986.

Upon opening, P1 will host passenger pick-up and drop-off, taxis, rideshare services, accessible parking and more than 1,700 parking bays in one convenient location, improving efficiency and reducing congestion.

The change will move all Terminal 1 pick-up and drop-off activity to the Ground Level of P1, accessed via Airport Drive.

To help customers with the transition, Perth Airport has launched an online information hub with updated maps, FAQs, journey planning information and step-by-step videos to assist visitors familiarise themselves with the new layouts.

The project is part of Perth Airport’s broader multi-billion-dollar investment program that will deliver expanded and upgraded terminal, runway and ground transport infrastructure to support the future growth of all domestic, regional and international airlines serving Perth. The coordinated program will increase capacity and improve facilities across Airport Central’s passenger terminals to meet the different operational requirements of the airlines.

Perth Airport Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer Kate Holsgrove said P1 was among the first of the major customer-facing projects delivered through the transformation program.
“P1 is a major investment in the customer journey and an important step in Perth Airport’s long-term vision for aviation in Western Australia,” Ms Holsgrove said.

“It will deliver immediate benefits for customers and provide an early look at the airport experience we are creating.”

When P1 opens, all Terminal 1 passenger pick-up and drop-off activity will move to the Ground Level of P1 via Airport Drive. The facility adds 70 per cent more pick-up and drop-off bays than the current Terminal 1 area, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion during busy periods.

Across its six levels, P1 provides Short-Term, Premium, motorcycle, and car rental bays. Smart bay-finding technology will direct customers to available bays, with ACROD parking on every level.

“Customers will immediately notice the improved pick-up and drop-off experience,” Ms Holsgrove said.

“More parking spaces and improved ground transport facilities will make journeys easier for travellers and visitors.

“We're also proud to have partnered with Western Australian artists to create both the façade artwork for the new P1 transport hub and the forecourt sculpture. These pieces provide a strong sense of place, helping to showcase Western Australia's identity and creativity from the moment visitors arrive at Perth Airport."

The existing Express pick-up and drop-off area outside Terminal 2 will remain available. Taxi and rideshare pick-ups for Terminal 2 will move to the P1 Ground Level, creating a consolidated transport hub for both terminals.

“Customers will benefit from the new transport hub while we complete the remaining precinct works,” Ms Holsgrove said.

The opening of P1 and closure of the current Terminal 1 pick-up and drop-off lane will enable the next stage of works across the precinct, including landscaping and final finishing works that could not be undertaken while the existing forecourt remained operational.

“We thank passengers for their patience as we deliver these upgrades,” Ms Holsgrove said.

Perth Airport is now undertaking a series of comprehensive trials and testing to ensure P1 operates safely and efficiently from day one.
The trial phase and final testing over the coming weeks will inform the final opening date for P1.

Ms Holsgrove said the lead-up to the opening was a good opportunity for passengers to visit the online information hub to understand the new layouts.

“These are significant changes for people travelling through Terminal 1, so passengers, visitors and drivers should plan ahead,” Ms Holsgrove said.

“Customers should review the maps and videos before travelling, follow on-site signage and allow extra time as they become familiar with the new layout.”