All aboard: Low-cost commutes land at Queensland airport
Commuting to a North Queensland airport is about to get easier and cheaper with a state government announcement today.
Commuters and tourists will soon be able to travel to and from Townsville Airport for 50 cents, with a new service set to roll from the end of the month.
Transport and Main Road Minister Brent Mickelberg said today that the new airport bus service would be funded by the state government and operated by Kinetic.
The route 222 service was expected to operate hourly between 4am and 11pm, seven days a week (excluding Christmas Day and Good Friday), starting on June 29.
It was expected to link the airport into the wider local public transport network, serving Townsville Airport and Townsville City bus hub via key locations, including The Strand, Breakwater ferry terminal, and the Palmer Street entertainment precinct.
Mickelberg said the bus route would cover the primary operating hours of scheduled flights and airport workers’ shift times.
And he said it came after calls from the community and industry for public transport access to Townsville Airport.
“Townsville Airport is the gateway to North Queensland, and the airport bus has been the missing link to get both visitors and locals into the city,” Townsville MP Adam Baillie said as he welcomed the plan.
“The new bus will run hourly, helping connect arrivals and departures with the heart of our city, and it’ll be just 50 cents thanks to the LNP Government’s Permanent 50 Cent fares.
“This is a big win for Townsville, and I want to thank everyone who took the time to submit their feedback to our community consultation.
“Townsville is undergoing an evolution in the lead up to the 2032 Games, and increased connectivity is vital for us to continue to cement our reputation as the Tourism and Events Capital of the North.”
Queensland Airports chief executive officer Amelia Evans said the bus route was an important addition.
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“We’ve long advocated for a direct public bus connection to Townsville Airport, working alongside local and state government, as well as Townsville Enterprise Limited,” she said.
“First and last impressions matter, and this service will give local and visitors more choice in how they move through our city, in an accessible and convenient way.
“Linking the airport with the wider region strengthens connectivity, and in a growing city like Townsville, that is critical for attracting investment, talent and long-term growth.”
Customers can plan their journey via the Translink Journey Planner.
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