Perth Airport sets new annual passenger record in FY26

Perth Airport has recorded its busiest year on record, welcoming 18,387,992 million passengers in FY26 — an increase of 5.2 per cent on the previous year.

The record result was led by international travel, which rose 8.1 per cent to 5.55 million passengers, supported by continued growth across regional and interstate markets. Regional passenger numbers increased 6.0 per cent to 6.6 million, while interstate passengers grew 1.9 per cent to 6.22 million.

Perth Airport CEO Jason Waters said the milestone reflects both the strong demand for air travel and the dedication of airport teams.

“While much of the public focus has been on our plans for the future, our teams have been working hard to support record numbers of Western Australians travelling through Perth Airport safely, securely and efficiently,” Mr Waters said.

“Our Operations, Terminals and Ground Transport teams have done an outstanding job managing this growth while maintaining high standards of service and safety.

During FY26, Perth Airport continued to strengthen its domestic and international network, with new and expanded services improving connections across Asia, Africa, New Zealand and the eastern states.

Key international milestones included China Southern moving to year-round Guangzhou services, Qantas launching Johannesburg and Auckland, ANA increasing Perth–Tokyo to daily flights over the peak northern winter season, and Jetstar launching Perth–Manila.

TransNusa also expanded Perth–Bali to double daily, while further frequency growth from Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Airlines, Air New Zealand and Philippine Airlines added more choice and capacity for Western Australians and inbound visitors.

Domestically, Qantas’ new services to Newcastle and Hobart further expanded Perth’s direct interstate network.

"Every new direct air service strengthens connectivity, bringing more visitors, business activity and investment into Western Australia, supporting jobs and economic growth across the State.

“We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with the State Government to further grow Australia’s western hub and expand opportunities for Western Australians."

“These strong passenger numbers reinforce the importance of our ambitious redevelopment program as we prepare for continued growth over the coming years.”

Perth Airport is delivering a multi-billion-dollar investment program that will transform aviation in Western Australia over the next decade. Key projects include an expanded international terminal, new terminal facilities, a new parallel runway, additional aprons and taxiways, multi-storey car parks and major road upgrades.

“This investment will deliver our long-term One Airport vision, creating a more efficient airport, a better travel experience for passengers and significant economic benefits for Western Australia,” Mr Waters said.

Construction is already underway including the first of two multi-storey car parks, an expansion of Terminal 2 and upgrades at Terminal 1 International.

Preliminary works for the new parallel runway have also commenced, with the project expected to deliver substantial benefits for airlines, exporters, tourism and the resources sector.

Perth Airport is also working closely with airline partners and government agencies on the design of future terminal facilities at Airport Central.

“Delivering major infrastructure projects within a live airport environment inevitably presents challenges, particularly for traffic management,” Mr Waters said.

“We thank passengers for their patience and understanding as we deliver the infrastructure needed to support Perth’s future growth.”

“These projects will transform Perth Airport and ensure we continue to meet the needs of Western Australians, visitors and businesses for decades to come.”