Art and Entertainment
Gold Coast Airport reflects the vibrant region it serves, bringing art and culture into every journey.
The terminal and airport precinct showcase local creativity in a way that feels truly connected to place. Framed by the Pacific Ocean and Cobaki Broadwater, every visit offers a new perspective on the beauty and character of this unique destination.
The Curatorium Advisory Committee
Gold Coast Airport’s Curatorium Advisory Committee plays a vital role in shaping the airport’s cultural identity through a long-term art strategy.
Bringing together leading artistic voices from the Gold Coast and Northern New South Wales, the Committee collaborates with local First Nations leaders and stakeholders to curate artworks that are authentic, inclusive, bold, and deeply rooted in place.
Basking in the Sun Eastern Water Dragons
Artist: Sam Gowing
On Sam Gowing’s first day on the Gold Coast, she walked to the top of Burleigh Hill (Jellurgal), where she felt something touch her big toe. It was a water dragon welcoming her to her new home. This was the moment she fell in love with these beautiful prehistoric lizards. She loves their stillness, the way they pose like statues, calm against the ever-changing waters, stoic and hopeful symbols of endurance in an uncertain world.
Sam Gowing is a multidisciplinary Gold Coast-based artist whose creative journey spans over three decades. Sam’s artistic curiosity is focused on the world around us, as she holds a profound passion for the environment, the ocean, and native wildlife. More recently, her focus has shifted towards the vulnerability of our fellow creatures on this planet. Sam firmly believes in the influence of art within our environment, recognising its potential to subconsciously shape our feelings and attitudes toward place, nature and sustainability. With her work, she aims to inspire a deeper connection to the world we inhabit and the responsibility we bear toward its preservation.
Watch the video below to learn more about the art installation.
Rolling Ball Sculpture #202
Artist: David Morrell
Rolling Ball Sculpture #202 is the work of internationally acclaimed Australian artist David Morrell. A captivating creation crafted from over 150 metres of wire, the artwork pays a mesmerising tribute to the dynamic world of aviation. Taking eight months to complete, the artwork is intricately designed to mimic the runways, taxiways, and aprons of Gold Coast Airport. The spherical elements symbolise the journey of flight, capturing the essence of holding patterns, turbulence, and the joy of soaring into and out of the Gold Coast.
David Morrell is a renowned kinetic artist based in Adelaide, South Australia, leading the creative force behind Avid Creations. Specialising in custom rolling ball sculptures and intricate pinball wireforms, David’s work captivates audiences worldwide with its blend of art, engineering, and interactivity.
Branching Narratives
Artists: Alinta Krauth and Jason Nelson
Alinta and Jason’s interactive artwork at Gold Coast Airport is a dynamic installation inspired by the local landscape and birdlife, elements that are significant to the region – particularly the Gold Coast hinterland. The piece features moving treehouses that passengers can interact with via touchscreen, triggering animations like flocks of birds and falling leaves. This engaging artwork invites curiosity and connection, celebrating the natural environment.
Alinta is a multidisciplinary new media artist, interaction designer, and researcher, with a focus on ecological themes. She collaborates with ecology experts and wildlife rescue organisations, and has exhibited her work internationally in South Korea, Switzerland, Germany, and Australia.
Jason is an award-winning and renowned creator of quirky digital poems and fictions, builder of art games and all kinds of digital art expressions. Jason is an Associate Professor of digital art and writing and works at 'The Center for Digital Narrative.
Need Help?
Got questions about your journey through Gold Coast Airport? We've gathered the top FAQs to help you cruise through the terminal with ease.
How early do I need to be at the airport for my flight?
Most domestic airlines require you to be at the check-in counter at least 60 minutes before departure. International airlines recommend arriving at least two hours before your flight. Be sure to check the guidelines provided by your airline.
Does Gold Coast Airport have more than one terminal?
Gold Coast Airport has one main terminal. Both domestic and international flights operate from this terminal.
Does Gold Coast Airport operate on Queensland or NSW time?
Gold Coast Airport operates on Queensland time (AEST) all year round.
Is Gold Coast Airport open 24 hours?
The terminal is open from 4:00am to 11:00pm daily. Entry is restricted outside these hours, and overnight stays inside the terminal are not permitted.
Does Gold Coast Airport have free Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
Are there smoking areas at the airport?
Yes. Designated smoking areas are located at the northern end of the terminal, along the northern car park walkway, and in the southern forecourt. Smoking, vaping, or using e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited inside the terminal and airside areas.
Are there lockers available at the airport?
Yes. Lockers are located at the front of the terminal in the short-term car park. Pricing varies depending on duration.
Is there baggage wrapping available?
Yes. Baggage wrapping services are available opposite the Virgin Australia check-in counters.
Are there ATMs at Gold Coast Airport?
Yes. Multi-currency ATMs are located throughout the terminal and offer AUD, NZD, and JPY. Fees range from $2 to $25.
Where is the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) desk?
Located in the International Departures Lounge near the top of the escalators before Heinemann Duty Free. Inform check-in staff if you need to claim an item packed in checked baggage. For more information about TRS please visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Are there Multi-Faith areas at the airport?
Yes, three Multi-Faith/Prayer Rooms are available:
- Near the main security point, opposite the domestic passenger screening area.
- In the Domestic Departures Lounge, near Hungry Jack’s.
- In the International Departures Lounge on Level 2, near WHSmith.
Who do I contact about aircraft noise concerns?
Airservices Australia manages noise monitoring. Contact the Noise Complaints and Information Service (NCIS):
- Phone: 1800 802 584 or 1300 302 240
- Email: community.relations@airservicesaustralia.com
- Website: www.airservices.gov.au
How can I see what aircraft are flying over Gold Coast Airport?
Use Airservices Australia’s WebTrak tool for near real-time tracking.
Access WebTrak for Gold Coast Airport.
How are flight paths chosen?
Ideally, aircraft fly by the most direct route and at the optimum altitude for reasons of operational safety, economy and efficiency of flight operations. However, it is not always possible for aircraft to fly optimum routes because of noise and safety considerations and the competing demands of other airspace users.
Some factors that influence flight paths are:
- Runway orientation
- The need to separate arriving and departing aircraft
- The need to provide an appropriate safety buffer around aircraft following the same path or on intersecting paths
- The need to integrate the flight paths for each airport in the region
- Avoidance of hills or other obstructions
- Minimisation of noise impact where possible
- Weather conditions
- Avoidance of restricted airspace (usually for security or safety reasons)
- Efficient use of airspace
What are flight paths and flight zones?
Flight paths are commonly used air corridors. Flight zones cover a wider area where aircraft may be seen and heard during normal operations.
Why does Gold Coast Airport have a curfew?
Gold Coast Airport is regulated by the Federal Government under the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications & the Arts. The curfew at Gold Coast Airport is between 11.00pm – 6.00am Queensland time.
What is RNP and how will it affect aircraft noise?
RNP (Required Navigation Performance) is a way of defining the navigation capability of an aircraft, taking into account the performance of the avionics, on-board systems and flight characteristics.
How many flight movements does Gold Coast Airport have per day?
GCA averages over 100 aircraft movements per day, including both commercial and general aviation flights.
Where can I find information for passengers requiring assistance?
Gold Coast Airport is committed to providing a comfortable and accessible experience. Please advise your airline when booking or before travel if you need assistance.
Visit our Accessibility page for details.
What support is available for passengers with hidden disabilities?
Gold Coast Airport’s Hidden Disabilities Program includes the sunflower lanyard, sensory maps, communication boards, quiet rooms inside the airport, and more. Visit our Hidden Disabilities page to learn more.
Does Gold Coast Airport have a Changing Places facility?
Yes. An Adult Accessible Change Facility (AACF) is available after security screening in the Domestic Departures Lounge, opposite Boarding Gate 12.
The facility includes:
- A height-adjustable adult-sized change table
- Ceiling track hoist for easy transfers
- Centrally located peninsular toilet
- Privacy screen, grab rails, sensor lighting, and an accessible shower
- Ample space for a traveller with a disability and up to two carers
This facility is designed to support travellers with high physical support needs and their carers.
