Support

Dubbo City Regional Airport

Airports in the city

About the Airport

Dubbo City Regional Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Dubbo Airport is not merely a transit point but a welcoming "gateway" to the vast Orana region in New South Wales. This aviation hub serves as the starting point for those eager to visit the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo or experience the spirit of the true Australian outback without losing touch with civilisation. The atmosphere here is free from the hustle and bustle of major cities, allowing travellers to tune into a relaxed holiday rhythm immediately upon landing. Thanks to its strategic location, the airport is a vital link between state capitals and the remote corners of the continent.

IATA Code DBO
ICAO Code YSDU
City Dubbo
Distance to City Centre 5 km
Status Regional (Domestic)
Annual Passengers Approx. 200,000
Schedule Available on the official website

Airport Features and Advantages

Despite its regional status, Dubbo Airport plays a critically important role in Australia's aviation infrastructure and offers a number of advantages for tourists:

  • Strategic Aviation Base: The airport is one of the main hubs for emergency services, including the famous "Royal Flying Doctor Service". Observing their operations can be an interesting experience for visitors to the city.
  • Maximum Accessibility: The terminal is located just a 5-7 minute drive from the city centre and major attractions, allowing you to save time and money on transfers.
  • No Queues: Thanks to the terminal's compactness and efficient process organisation, passing through all pre-flight formalities takes minimal time, eliminating stress before departure.
  • Infrastructure for Private Pilots: The airport actively accepts general aviation flights, making it a popular stopover for those travelling across the continent on private aircraft.

Contact Information

  • Official Website: www.dubboairport.com.au
  • Help Desk Phone: +61 2 6801 4560 (Airport Administration)
  • Airport Address: McMahon Street, Dubbo NSW 2830, Australia
  • Email: airport@dubbo.nsw.gov.au
  • Social Media: The airport is managed by the Dubbo Regional Council. Current information and news can be found on the Council's official page on Facebook.
  • Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to checked baggage, please contact your airline's representative directly. If you have left personal items within the terminal building, contact the airport administration at the phone number listed above.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to terminal operations and available services, please contact the airport administration via phone or email.

How to Get to the Airport

Dubbo Airport (DBO) is conveniently located just a few kilometres northwest of the city centre of Dubbo, making the journey there quick and simple. Travellers can choose from several ways to reach the terminal, depending on their budget, time, and convenience.

Taxis and Transfer Services — the most popular and direct way to get to the airport. The trip from the city centre usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Taxis can be easily found in the city or booked by phone. The estimated cost of the trip is approximately 20-25 Australian Dollars (AUD), making this option ideal for those travelling with luggage or those who value "door-to-door" comfort. Private transfer services are also available, which are recommended to be booked in advance, especially for large groups.

For travellers on a limited budget, it is worth noting that there is currently no direct public transport to the airport terminal in Dubbo. Some bus routes by Dubbo Buslines pass along the highway near the airport; however, you would have to walk about 1.5–2 km from the nearest stop to the terminal. This option may be inconvenient, especially with luggage. Be sure to check the current schedule and routes on the carrier's official website to assess if this method suits you.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those planning to explore this region of Australia and who value freedom of movement. Several major rental companies operate counters at Dubbo Airport. If you are driving to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, convenient paid parking is at your disposal. The first 2 hours of parking are generally free, which is convenient for short visits. For longer parking, daily rates apply, starting from approximately 15 AUD per day. All parking zones are located just a few steps from the terminal building.

Terminals and Map

Dubbo Airport (DBO) is a compact and modern regional aviation hub, structured for maximum passenger convenience. Its main feature is simplicity and efficiency.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. This completely eliminates confusion and the need to move between different buildings. All infrastructure is located under one roof, making navigation intuitively clear.

The terminal layout is very simple. Upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area with airline check-in counters. To the left or right (depending on the current configuration) is the security screening point leading to the secure area — the departure lounge. The arrivals area with the baggage claim belt is located in close proximity to the terminal exit. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

Check-in and security procedures at Dubbo Airport are generally very fast. Due to the small passenger flow, queues here are a rarity. The entire process from entering the building to reaching the waiting lounge usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least one hour before departure to check in luggage and complete all formalities without rushing.

Airport History

The history of Dubbo Airport (DBO) began in 1935, when there was only a simple grass landing strip on the site. However, World War II played a key role in its development. During this period, the airport was transferred to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and became an important training base. Schools for wireless operators, gunners, and navigators were stationed here, which required the construction of necessary infrastructure and laid the foundation for the future civil aviation hub.

After the war ended, the facility returned to civilian use and began to develop systematically. An important stage was the modernisation in the 1950s, when the grass surface was replaced with asphalt, allowing it to accommodate more modern aircraft. In 1970, the Dubbo City Council gained full control over the airport, and shortly thereafter, in 1971, a new passenger terminal was opened, significantly increasing the level of comfort for travellers.

In the 21st century, the airport continued to actively modernise to meet growing passenger traffic and airline requirements. Significant renovations and expansions of the terminal were carried out, and runway infrastructure was improved. Today, Dubbo Airport is a modern regional aviation hub playing a key role in the transport system of New South Wales and connecting the region with the country's major cities.

Services and Facilities

Dubbo Airport (DBO) is a modern regional aviation hub offering passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its compact size, the airport is well-equipped to meet the basic needs of travellers setting off to explore Australia.

There is a cafe operating within the terminal where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase light refreshments and beverages before departure. It is an excellent place to pass the time while waiting for boarding. There are no specialised duty-free shops here; however, essential items and souvenirs can be found in the cafe.

For passenger convenience, the airport building provides free Wi-Fi, as well as stations for charging mobile devices. You can stay connected, work, or simply browse the web. Comfortable seating for waiting is located in the departure lounge. Although there are no separate VIP lounges in the airport, the general waiting area is clean and comfortable.

Dubbo Airport is equipped to welcome all categories of passengers. Accessible toilets and ramps are provided for travellers with reduced mobility, and airline staff are ready to assist with boarding (it is recommended to book this service in advance). Families with small children can use the baby changing rooms. There are ATMs in the terminal, but currency exchange points are absent — it is better to perform such transactions in the city. Basic medical assistance can be provided by airport staff in emergency cases.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options are located just a few minutes' drive away in the city itself. Separate conference rooms or business centres are not provided in the terminal, but the quiet atmosphere of the waiting lounge allows for working on a laptop while awaiting a flight.

Where to Eat

When planning a flight through Dubbo Airport (DBO), it is important to consider that this is a compact regional hub, and dining options correspond to its size. Unlike large international hubs, the choice of establishments is concentrated in one place, which, however, makes navigation very simple and convenient.

The main and only place where you can have a snack is the Spitfire Cafe, located in the main terminal building. It serves both departing and arriving passengers, situated in the public area (landside) before security control. Its operating hours are usually aligned with the flight schedule, so it is open when there are passengers at the airport.

The cafe menu offers a classic selection for a quick bite or a light lunch. Here you will find:

  • Hot beverages: barista-made coffee, tea, hot chocolate.
  • Cold beverages: juices, sparkling water, and bottled water.
  • Food: sandwiches, rolls, pies, pastries, as well as light snacks like crisps and sweets.

This is an ideal place to drink a cup of excellent Australian coffee before a flight or grab a sandwich for a substantial snack. Regarding dietary requirements, choices may be limited. It is recommended to check the availability of vegetarian or gluten-free options directly with the cafe staff. Prices here are moderate, as in most regional airports in Australia.

Tips for Travellers

Travelling through Dubbo City Regional Airport usually proceeds smoothly, but a few tips will help make it even more comfortable. This is an important regional hub serving the city of Dubbo and its surroundings in Australia. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 60–90 minutes before departure. This time is sufficient to check in luggage, pass through security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which is offered by most airlines. If you are travelling only with hand luggage, you can proceed directly to screening. Security control at Dubbo Airport is standard and generally proceeds significantly faster than in major international hubs due to the smaller flow of passengers.

When choosing a seat on the plane, remember that smaller aircraft often fly on regional routes. A window seat will allow you to enjoy the views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in hand luggage. All liquids must be packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Remember Australia's strict biosecurity rules: the transport of certain plants and food products between states may be restricted.

If you have a transfer planned, it will most often be in Sydney or another major city. Check with the airline in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Since Dubbo Airport mainly serves domestic flights, there is no customs control here. You will pass through it at your first airport of arrival in the country if flying from overseas.

To save a little money, book parking or airport transfers online in advance. Prices for food and beverages in the terminal may be higher, so it makes sense to bring an empty water bottle, which can be filled after screening, and snacks permitted for carriage.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. There is a cafe in the terminal where you can have a snack, and access to Wi-Fi, which will help pass the waiting time. Stay calm and keep important contacts at hand: airline support services, your hotel, and taxi services.

Reached the end of the page?

That means the route is fully explored