Snowy Mountains Airport

Welcome to Snowy Mountains Airport — the gateway to the premier ski region of Australia! Located near the town of Cooma, this small but strategically important airport serves as the starting point for thousands of winter sports enthusiasts and summer hikers. Your adventure across snowy peaks and alpine meadows begins here, bypassing long hours of driving from major cities. It is here that the air is filled with the anticipation of speed, pure mountain air, and unforgettable experiences.

The main advantage of Snowy Mountains Airport is its strategic location. It is the closest airport to the popular ski resorts of Australia, such as Thredbo and Perisher. In winter, when the ski season opens, travellers flock here to reach the snowy slopes as quickly as possible. In summer, the airport serves hiking enthusiasts, mountain bikers, and those wishing to enjoy the beauty of Kosciuszko National Park.

As befits a small regional airport, everything here happens quickly and without fuss. You will not encounter long queues for check-in or security screening, allowing you to save precious time for your holiday. Despite its compact size, the airport has everything necessary for a comfortable start and end to your journey. Car rental desks and transfer services operate here, delivering you directly to hotels at the ski resorts. Snowy Mountains Airport is the ideal choice for those who value convenience and wish to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a mountain holiday without delay.

Below you will find contact information for Snowy Mountains Airport (OOM), which serves the town of Cooma and the surrounding region.

• Official Website: On the official airport page, which is part of the Snowy Monaro Regional Council website, you can find the current schedule and news: www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au/130/Airport
• Help Desk Phone: For general inquiries related to airport operations, you can contact the number: +61 2 6455 1742.
• Airport Address: 1541 Kosciuszko Rd, Coolringdon NSW 2630, Australia.
• Email: For written inquiries, you can use the Regional Council email: council@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate official pages on social media. News and updates are sometimes published on the Snowy Monaro Regional Council pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues regarding lost, delayed, or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline directly. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance or advice regarding your stay at the airport, it is recommended to use the main help desk phone number.

Snowy Mountains Airport (Cooma-Snowy Mountains Airport) is located approximately 15 kilometres from the centre of Cooma, making it easily accessible for travellers heading to the mountain regions of Australia. There are several ways to reach the terminal, but please note that as a regional airport, transport options may be limited compared to major international hubs.

Taxis and Private Transfers are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. The journey from the centre of Cooma will take about 15-20 minutes. It is recommended to book a taxi or shuttle in advance, especially during the peak ski season (from June to September) when demand increases significantly. The cost of the trip will depend on the operator, but it is a reliable option if you are travelling with luggage or wish to avoid parking hassles.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to explore the Snowy Mountains region on their own. Offices of several rental companies operate in the town of Cooma and directly at the airport. With a rented car, you can not only reach the airport but also enjoy complete freedom of movement during your holiday. The road to the airport is simple and well-signposted.

As for public transport, there are no regular city bus or train routes directly connecting Cooma to the airport. Therefore, tourists should not rely on this method of travel. The main focus is on private transport and pre-booked services.

For those arriving in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided at Snowy Mountains Airport. Typically, parking at regional airports in Australia is conveniently located and offers reasonable rates for both short-term and long-term stays, making this option quite practical.

Snowy Mountains Airport (OOM), serving the picturesque mountain region, is a small and cosy aviation hub. All its infrastructure is concentrated in one compact passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving passengers. Its primary purpose is to ensure convenient access to ski resorts and natural parks in the region, so terminal operations often have a seasonal character, with peak loads during the winter months.

The terminal layout is extremely simple and intuitively clear. Upon entering, you will immediately see the check-in counters, the waiting area, and the boarding gate. Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building, a short distance from each other, making navigation maximally easy. Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between them is not relevant — everything is under one roof.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Snowy Mountains Airport usually takes minimum time. Flight check-in and security screening proceed quickly and without long queues, especially outside peak dates. Typically, all procedures take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, at the height of the ski season, it is recommended to arrive at the airport with a small time margin — approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure, to check in luggage and pass through control without rushing.

The terminal offers a basic set of services necessary for waiting for a flight in comfort. There is a small rest area, car rental desks, and essential amenities. The main advice for navigation is simply to follow the signs. Thanks to the modest size of the airport, the path from the building entrance to the boarding gate will take just a few minutes. This makes travelling through Snowy Mountains particularly convenient for those who value their time and dislike the bustle of large aviation hubs.

The history of Snowy Mountains Airport (OOM) is inextricably linked with one of the most ambitious engineering projects in Australia — the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme. The airport, located near the town of Cooma, was officially opened in 1964 and was originally built to support this grandiose project. Its main task was the rapid and efficient transport of engineers, workers, equipment, and high-ranking guests to the remote mountain region.

After the completion of the hydroelectric complex, the role of the airport began to change. From an important logistics hub for an industrial project, it gradually transformed into a key gateway for tourists. With the development of ski resorts such as Thredbo and Perisher, the airport began receiving more travellers eager to enjoy winter sports and the beauty of Kosciuszko National Park.

Throughout its history, the airport has been modernized repeatedly to meet modern aviation requirements and growing passenger traffic. Works were carried out to expand and strengthen the runway, as well as to renovate the passenger terminal to increase traveller comfort. These improvements allowed for the acceptance of more modern aircraft types and ensured stable air connectivity, especially during the peak winter season.

One of the most interesting facts in the airport's history is its direct participation in creating a 20th-century engineering marvel. Without this air harbour, the implementation of the Snowy Mountains project would have been significantly more complex and longer. Today, Snowy Mountains Airport is not just a transport facility, but a living monument to great construction and a symbol of how infrastructure created for industrial needs can successfully adapt and serve tourism development, opening the region's beauty to the world.

Snowy Mountains Airport (OOM) is a small and modern regional airport serving as a starting point for travel through the picturesque Snowy Mountains. Despite its compact size, the terminal provides passengers with all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight.

Before departure, you can relax in the local café, which serves hot and cold beverages, fresh pastries, and light snacks. This is the main place for dining and purchasing essential items at the airport, as large restaurants and shops are absent here. For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and there are power outlets for charging mobile devices.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring a barrier-free environment. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms with changing tables are provided. It is worth noting that there are no separate high-comfort lounges or VIP lounges at the airport.

There are no bank branches, currency exchange points, or business centres in the terminal, so it is recommended to resolve all financial matters in advance. The nearest hotels and accommodation options are located in the town of Cooma, a few minutes' drive from the airport. There are no specialised medical facilities on the premises, but airport staff are ready to provide first aid if necessary.

When planning a snack or lunch at Snowy Mountains Airport (OOM), it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport. The choice of establishments here is limited but quite sufficient to comfortably pass the time while waiting for a flight.

The main and, typically, the only place for dining is the café in the main terminal hall. It serves both departing and arriving passengers (landside zone), so it is accessible to all airport visitors. Here you can order freshly brewed coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as light snacks: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and chocolate. This is an ideal option for a quick bite before boarding.

If you are looking for something more substantial, the café menu usually includes classic Australian meat pies or hot sandwiches. Regarding special dietary requirements, such as vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, their availability is highly unlikely due to the small size of the establishment. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them.

The café's opening hours are directly tied to the flight schedule — it opens some time before departure and closes shortly after the aircraft arrives. Prices here correspond to the average level for airports: slightly higher than in the city, but quite acceptable. For a wider selection of restaurants and a full meal, it is better to visit establishments in the nearby town of Cooma.

Planning a departure from Snowy Mountains Airport, which serves the town of Cooma and popular ski resorts in Australia? Use our tips to ensure your journey goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle. This is a small regional airport, so many procedures here are faster than in major hubs, but preparation is always important.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 60–90 minutes before departure. This time is usually sufficient to check in luggage and pass security control without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your smartphone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Snowy Mountains Airport has standard screening procedures. Remember the general rules: liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited. Be mindful of strict Australian biosecurity laws — do not transport fresh fruit, vegetables, or animal products between states without the appropriate permit.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If possible, choose a window seat. During take-off and landing in clear weather, stunning views of snowy peaks and picturesque regional landscapes open up. An aisle seat is suitable for those who wish to be able to stand up freely during the flight.

Passengers with Connections. Most flights from Snowy Mountains Airport operate to major cities such as Sydney or Canberra, from where you can continue your journey. If you have a transfer to another flight planned (especially an international one), allow at least 2-3 hours for it. This will give you a sufficient margin of time to collect luggage, re-check in, and pass all formalities at the large airport.

Customs Control. It is important to know that Snowy Mountains Airport handles only domestic flights. Therefore, there is no international customs or passport control here. All passengers undergo only standard pre-flight security screening.

Saving Time and Money. Book transfers or car rental in advance, especially during the peak ski season — choices on-site may be limited, and prices higher. You can also bring light snacks and an empty water bottle to fill after passing security, so you don't spend money on drinks at the airport.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative — they will provide current information and explain further actions. The airport is small, so the range of services is limited. In case of a long wait, it is useful to have a book, headphones, and a portable charger for gadgets with you.