Canberra Airport (CBR) Guide to Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport (IATA code: CBR), located in the District of Majura in the Australian Capital Territory, serves the nation's capital as well as the neighboring city of Queanbeyan, as well as regional locations in the ACT and southern New South Wales. It is one busiest airports in Australia, located in the North Canberra neighborhood, about 8 km from the city center.

All state capitals and numerous regional communities along the east coast of Australia are directly accessible from the airport. The airport handles commercial air travel and is the only public general aviation airfield in the Australian Capital Territory.

Transfer Services at Canberra Airport

You can go to Morshead Drive, Parkes Way, Pialligo Avenue, and the actual city of Canberra from Canberra Airport. The airport is conveniently located close to a significant crossroads connecting the Majura Parkway and the Monaro Highway with Canberra's east-west main roadways. Canberra can be reached from the airport in roughly 10 minutes.

A taxi stand is available at the airport. A $3 tax will be assessed on drivers who pick up or drop off passengers using Uber.

There are 64-weekday ACTION routes and 26-weekend services from the city center to the passenger terminal at Canberra Airport. The former Route 11 and 11A are now part of Route R3.

During the day, passengers can take the Canberra Airport Express minibus to the city center of Canberra, where they can transfer to regional and interstate coach services at the West Row bus terminal.

Several local bus routes serve the airport area and Brindabella Business Park, including routes 792 and 834.

Rental Car Services at Canberra Airport

Rental car services at Canberra Airport provide a convenient way to get around the city and its surrounding areas. Look for them at the Arrivals Area of the terminal building. With a wide range of vehicles available, from luxury sedans to compact cars, you can find the perfect rental car for your needs.

Rental car prices vary depending on availability and seasonality; however, they are generally reasonably priced compared to other transportation options at Canberra Airport.

In addition, most rentals come with comprehensive insurance coverage at no extra charge, ensuring that you have peace of mind while driving in this beautiful Australian capital city.

Please check our car rental options for more information.

Taxi Services at Canberra Airport

The taxi rank is located centrally on the ground floor of the terminal building, near the baggage carousels in the Arrivals Hall. The taxi rank is fully undercover, and the waiting area is indoors for your convenience. See more information about taxis at Canberra Airport.

Approximate taxi fare from the airport to major destinations in Canberra:

Tuggeranong at $60 all other times and at $53 6AM - 9PM
Belconnen at $47 all other times and at $42 6AM - 9PM
Gungahlin at $53 all other times and at $47 6AM - 9PM
Phillip at $40 all other times and at $36 6AM - 9PM
City at $26 all other times and at $23 6AM - 9PM

Train Services at Canberra Airport

The airport is not connected to the rail station. As the capital of the Australian state of New South Wales, Canberra is home to a central train station on the state's southernmost line, operated by NSW TrainLink. Location: in the Kingston neighborhood of Canberra.

It takes about 45 minutes and about $8.50 via bus and line 2 bus to get from Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra (Station). Taking a taxi for about 8 minutes is the quickest way to get from Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra (Station). More information about train services near Canberra Airport.

Bus Services at Canberra Airport

Rapid 3 of the ACTION Bus networks are operated by Transport Canberra. It travels from the Canberra Airport terminal to the city interchange, the Belconnen interchange, the Cohen St interchange, and Spence Terminus. This service operates daily (including holidays). More information about buses to and from Canberra Airport.

Rapid 3 runs every 15 minutes on weekdays, and on weekends, it only runs every 30 minutes. Twenty minutes or less is all it takes to get from the Canberra airport to the center of town.

Hotel Shuttle Services at Canberra Airport

Hotel shuttle services at Canberra Airport are a convenient and cost-effective way for travelers to get around the city. The shuttles are run by private operators, with most offering 24-hour service from the airport directly to hotels in the area.

Many operators also offer pick-up and drop-off services from other locations, such as train stations or bus terminals. Customers can save money on transport costs by booking their trip in advance - many providers offer discounts for online bookings and special offers throughout the year.

Please visit our hotel page for more information.

Rideshare Services at Canberra Airport

You can expect your driver to meet you in the Express Pick-Up Car Park, a short, covered walk of about 20 meters from the Arrivals Hall to the bottom floor of the GREEN Indoor Car Park.

You can relax in the air conditioning while waiting for your transport in the Express Pick-designated Up's waiting area, next to the parking garage.

Parking Services at Canberra Airport

Parking services at Canberra Airport are convenient and user-friendly. Five car parks are available to meet your needs, including short- and long-term parking.

Whether you're looking for a place to park your car overnight or for your holiday, Canberra Airport has covered it. All the car parks offer easy access with automatic entry gates that accept credit card or cash payments on exit.

Please see our parking page for more information.

Other Services at Canberra Airport

Other passenger services at Canberra Airport include a unique shuttle service to the nearby cities of Sydney and Melbourne. The shuttle operates on a regular schedule, so you can easily plan your trips. Canberra Airport also offers ground transport options such as hire cars and taxis for those who would rather have their own vehicle at their disposal.

The International Lounge in Departures provides comfortable seating and complimentary refreshments for international passengers before boarding their flights. Additionally, several cafes, retail outlets, and food outlets are located within the terminal building, where passengers can get something to eat or do some last-minute shopping before taking off.

Other facilities provided by Canberra Airport include ATMs; currency exchange counters; massage chairs, and 24/7 security services.

Disabled Passengers at Canberra Airport

Disabled passengers at Canberra Airport can expect a high level of support when traveling through the airport. The staff at Canberra Airport are dedicated to delivering excellent service, with special assistance available for passengers who require extra help.

There is no need to pre-book any services, and they can be arranged on the day of travel. Passengers will benefit from priority check-in and boarding, as well as wheelchair access throughout the terminal - including lifts, ramps, and designated seating areas in the departure lounge.

Disabled passengers can also request additional assistance, such as help carrying luggage or getting around during their journey. All disabled passengers are encouraged to contact the airport's customer service team if they have any questions or concerns before travel.

Wi-Fi at Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport offers free Wi-Fi access making it easy for parents and guardians to stay connected while on the go. Ultimately, providing its passengers maximum comfort and convenience when traveling through the airport is one of Canberra Airport's top priorities – especially for families. Travelers can relax or catch up on emails in the lounge while waiting to board their flights.

Baggage Claim at Canberra Airport

The baggage claim is in the main terminal. It serves domestic and international flights, with separate baggage claim areas for each type of flight. Passengers should check their tickets and where to collect their luggage.

The airport also provides additional assistance services such as postering and wheelchair service if needed. Travelers are encouraged to use these services when collecting their bags to get through the process quickly and easily.

Information Desk at Canberra Airport

The information desk at Canberra Airport is a great place to seek help while visiting the airport. It is staffed with friendly and helpful personnel who can assist you with all your queries regarding flight information, car rental services, hotel bookings, taxi service availability, and other general inquiries.

They also provide necessary printed material like maps of the city and brochures about popular attractions for visitors so that they can plan their trip accordingly. The desk is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring that passengers get all the help they need, even during odd hours or peak season rush times when it gets crowded at the airport.

Smoking at Canberra Airport

Smoking at Canberra Airport is a prohibited activity. It is not allowed anywhere on the airport grounds. Any attempt to smoke will be met with harsh penalties and could result in ejection from the facility. The Airport Authority takes this policy very seriously, as it is designed to protect the health of passengers and employees.

Those caught smoking at Canberra Airport can expect to be fined heavily or even face criminal prosecution, depending on the severity of their offense. Smoking areas have been set up outside terminal buildings for those wishing to indulge. However, these must still adhere strictly to all applicable laws regarding tobacco consumption.

Lost and Found Section at Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport has a comprehensive lost property office where passengers can enquire about any items left behind on an aircraft or in the terminals. In addition, there is a 24-hour security service helps passengers locate missing objects, including those accidentally taken from another passenger's bag.

Restrooms at Canberra Airport

Restrooms at Canberra Airport are well-maintained and provide travelers with a clean, comfortable environment. The bathrooms are spacious and equipped with modern fixtures such as automatic flushing toilets, hands-free faucets, and touchless soap dispensers.

Motion sensors activate the lights when someone enters the restroom, ensuring it is always bright, even during nighttime. All these features make using the toilets at Canberra Airport easier for travelers and employees alike.

Furthermore, each restroom has paper towels, toilet seat covers, air freshener sprays, and hand sanitizers to keep everyone safe from germs while traveling through Australia's capital city.

Nursing Mothers Station at Canberra Airport

The nursing mothers' station at Canberra Airport has been installed in the departure lounge to provide a comfortable space for breastfeeding mothers. The station includes an armchair, power outlet, and sink with warm water – all provided so that mothers can feed their young ones without having to worry about being uncomfortable or struggling to find a place.

ATMs at Canberra Airport

ATMs at Canberra Airport are in both the Arrivals and Departures Terminals. The ATMs at Canberra Airport are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Customers can withdraw both Australian dollars and foreign currency from the ATMs.

Customers can access international money transfer services through these banks, too.

Please note that credit and debit cards may only be accepted for withdrawals at some machines, so it is best to check with your financial institution before traveling.

Currency Exchange at Canberra Airport

Currency exchange at Canberra Airport is easy and convenient. The airport has multiple options for travelers looking to change their money, including bank-operated exchange bureaus and independent money changers located in the terminal departures hall.

Currency exchange rates are competitive with those offered by local banks or other financial institutions; however, it's important to note that some fees may apply when exchanging currency through third parties like these.

Additionally, ensuring enough cash on hand when leaving Canberra Airport is essential, as not all retailers accept plastic payment methods such as credit cards or debit cards.

Food and Beverages at Canberra Airport

Food and beverages at Canberra Airport are among the best in the region. With a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Canberra Airport has something for everyone, from simple snacks to full-course meals, cafés, and Mediterranean-style food while waiting for your flight.

Shopping at Canberra Airport

Shopping at Canberra Airport is a great experience. With the wide variety of shops and services, travelers can easily find something to suit their needs. From souvenirs to travel necessities and snacks, there will surely be something for everyone at Canberra Airport's retail outlets.

Also available are specialty stores like jewelry, art galleries, and electronics stores. No matter what you're looking for – from designer clothes to novelty items – you'll be able to find it all in one convenient location. The helpful staff will also provide expert advice on what products best meet your needs or budget when shopping at Canberra Airport.

Pet Relief at Canberra Airport

The airport has two designated grassed and fenced-off regions located on either side of the airport terminal building. These pet relief areas provide a safe space for animals to relieve themselves before or after their travels.

Pet owners can bring their own waste bags or use the ones provided by Canberra Airport staff members. Dogs must always remain on leash in these designated pet relief zones, and all animal waste must be disposed of properly to maintain cleanliness in the area.

For pets traveling with passengers departing from Canberra Airport, there are also amenities available such as water bowls and shade shelters within each pet relief area, so pets can stay comfortable while awaiting their flights.

Ticketing Services at Canberra Airport

Ticketing services at Canberra Airport have been simplified to make traveling easier for passengers. The check-in process is now faster and more efficient, with the introduction of automated kiosks that allow passengers to print their boarding passes in minutes.

International travelers can use these same kiosks to complete their Australian government customs declarations. Self-service bag drops are also available for all departing flights, making it quick and easy to check your luggage without waiting in long lines at a counter.

In addition, Canberra Airport has introduced a flight notification system via text message or email, which will alert you if there are any changes or delays on your flight.

History of Canberra Airport

The original airstrip that the airport now stands on was laid down in the 1920s, not long after the location of the National Capital was chosen. The RAAF acquired control in 1939 and leased out some land for use by civilian planes.

A RAAF Lockheed Hudson departing from Melbourne crashed into a small hill east of the airport on August 13, 1940, causing what is now known as the Canberra air tragedy. The disaster resulted in six deaths, including four members of the crew and ministers from the Federal Government.

Tragically, the Minister of Civil Aviation and Air Transport, James Fairbairn, passed away. Because of this, the airport's eastern wing, known as Fairbairn Airbase, is now named after him. The airport's military section became known as RAAF Base Fairbairn in 1962. The northeastern section of the airport is still known as the Fairbairn area.

In 1988, improvements were made to the western terminal. Canberra Airport handled 1.4 million people per year by 1994, making it the eighth busiest airport in Australia.

Before its privatization, the ACT Government advocated for the airport's expansion to serve as a regional hub for international flights, including some limited wide-body flights to South-East Asia and the Pacific.

Canberra International Airport Pty Ltd purchased the lease in 1998. The RAAF section was subsequently sub-leased back to the Department of Defense. Although No. 34 Squadron RAAF is still stationed there, Defence Establishment Fairbairn replaced the RAAF area after deactivating it in 2003.

The main runway was expanded in 2006, so larger planes could land there, making it easier for heads of state and other dignitaries to fly directly to the capital.

About Canberra, Australia

The government of Australia is based in Canberra. Australia's largest inland metropolis and the eighth-largest city overall was founded after the federation of the Australian colonies as the seat of government for the new nation.

The city sits on the northernmost tip of the Australian Alps, the country's tallest mountain range, at the extremity of the Australian Capital Territory. According to projections made in June 2021, Canberra was home to 453,558 people.

Australian aborigines had lived in the capital's location for as long as 21,000 years. Ngunnawal people played a pivotal role as the dominant faction. St. John's Anglican Church and Blundells Cottage, two relics from the early 19th century, attest that Europeans began settling in the area then.

In 1901, Australia's colonies finally came together to form its nation. The debate over whether Sydney or Melbourne should serve as the nation's capital was settled with a compromise. The new capital would be created if it were in New South Wales and at least 160 kilometers from Sydney. In 1913, Canberra was established as the capital and given its current name.

After an international competition, American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin chose the Griffin Plan. The building began the following year, in 1913. It is wholly planned, making it unique among Australia's major urban areas.

The Griffins' concept was predicated on axes that ran through prominent geographical features like Black Mountain, Mount Ainslie, Capitol Hill, and City Hill and contained geometric elements. Because of its mountainous location, Canberra is the only mainland Australian city where you can see snow-capped mountains in winter. Yet snowfall is unusual within the municipal limits.

The capital city has numerous federal government buildings, national monuments, and museums. The Parliament Building, Government House, High Court, and other government agency headquarters fall under this category.

The Australian War Memorial, the Australian National University, the Royal Australian Mint, the Australian Institute of Sport, the National Gallery, the National Museum, and the National Library are some of the cultural and social landmarks that call Canberra home.

Royal Military College Duntroon and the Australian Defence Force Academy are only two of the many significant institutions of the Australian Defense Force in the city. Many international organizations, NGOs, lobbying groups, and professional organizations have their regional headquarters in Canberra. This includes all foreign embassies in Australia.

Weather in Canberra, Australia

Canberra has mild summers, highly chilly winters, and a consistently gloomy climate. Temperatures rarely drop below 25 degrees or rise above 94 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.

Canberra is at its warmest and most enjoyable during the months of late December and early March. Every day throughout the winter (December through March) has an average high above 76 degrees Fahrenheit. For Canberra, January is the hottest month of the year.

From May until September, the average daily high is below 58 degrees Fahrenheit, making this the chilly season. July is the coldest of the year. May - February is the wetter season's nine-month duration. The wettest days in Canberra often occur in November.

From February 22 to May 27, you'll find yourself in the drier season. With an average of only 5 days of precipitation, April has the fewest wet days in Canberra.

Useful Contact Details in Canberra, Australia

In the case of a medical emergency, contact 000 and ask for an ambulance. For any other police-related issues, call 000 to reach the police assistance line in Canberra.

The police assistance line can provide advice and guidance on how to handle a variety of situations where you may need help or require further information.

Australia National Emergency Number: 000

If your case is potentially dangerous, you can still call triple zero (000) for immediate assistance from police officers in the area. Depending on the severity of your problem, additional resources such as fire services may also be called upon if needed.

Hospitals in Canberra, Australia

Canberra Health Services

Address: Yamba Drive Garran ACT 2605

Phone: 1800 629 354

Emergency: 000

Police Stations in Canberra, Australia

Address: 16/18 London Circuit, Canberra City ACT 2601

Phone: 131 444 / 13 11 26

Emergency: 000

Canberra Airport Contacts

Address: Terminal Cct, Australian Capital Territory 2609, Australia

General Phone: +61 2 6275 2222