Kalgoorlie Airport

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the golden heart of Western Australia. Here, amidst the vast expanses of the red desert, begins your introduction to the legendary Goldfields region, where the history of the gold rush intertwines with modern industrial power. The terminal welcomes travellers with the distinct atmosphere of the Australian outback, offering quick and convenient access to the famous "Super Pit" mine and unique historic ghost towns.

Airport Features and Advantages

Despite its compact size, the airport plays a key role in the life of the region, serving both tourists and mining industry workers. Thanks to this, a business-like yet relaxed atmosphere prevails here, characteristic of remote corners of Australia.

A key advantage is its location: the air harbour is situated just a 10-15 minute drive from the city centre. This allows travellers to immerse themselves in exploring local attractions almost immediately after arrival.

For passenger comfort, the terminal provides:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the territory.
• A comfortable café and dining area where you can have a snack before your flight.
• Car rental desks — a highly recommended service, as personal transport is necessary for fully exploring the vast territories of the Goldfields.

The airport also holds historical significance as a base for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), which adds a special character to the place and reminds visitors of the heroic daily life in the Australian outback.

• Official Website: Generally, up-to-date information about the airport can be found on the official website of the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, which operates the airport: www.ckb.wa.gov.au/airport.
• Help Desk Phone: +61 8 9021 9600 (this number belongs to the city administration, which also handles airport matters).
• Airport Address: Hart Kerspien Dr, Kalgoorlie WA 6430, Australia.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the city administration contact email: mailbag@ckb.wa.gov.au.
• Social Media: News and updates regarding the airport are often published on the official City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder social media pages.
• Lost and Found: For items lost within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration. If your query concerns checked baggage (loss, delay, damage), you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to the infrastructure and operation of the airport itself, contact the general phone number. For all questions regarding schedules, reservations, tickets, and carriage regulations, please contact your airline's customer support directly.

Getting to Kalgoorlie Airport (KGI) from the city centre is quite simple, as it is located just 7 kilometres south of Kalgoorlie. The most popular and convenient method is a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle. The journey will take just 10–15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of a taxi ride is usually between 20–30 Australian Dollars. This is a reliable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group.

If you plan to explore the vast Goldfields region in Australia, renting a car is an excellent choice. Several major rental companies have desks at Kalgoorlie Airport. You can rent a car directly upon arrival or, conversely, drive a rented car from the city and return it at the airport before your flight. This provides maximum freedom of movement across this unique region.

For those travelling in their own vehicle, convenient parking is available at the airport. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available, located in immediate proximity to the terminal. This is a good option if you are flying away for a few days and want to leave your car in a safe place. Parking rates depend on the duration of the stay.

It is important to note that there is no direct public transport route, such as a city bus, to Kalgoorlie Airport. Local bus networks mainly serve urban areas without entering the airport. Therefore, to get to your flight, it is recommended to plan a transfer in advance, order a taxi, or use a rental car to ensure you arrive on time.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport (KGI) is a compact and modern regional airport distinguished by a simple and clear structure. It is designed to ensure maximum convenience for passengers travelling through Western Australia.

The airport operates one main terminal, which handles all flights — both departures and arrivals. This significantly simplifies navigation, as all key zones are located in one building. You will not have to worry about transfers between terminals, as there simply aren't any. The terminal layout is intuitive: after entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area with several check-in counters and car rental points.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but located in close proximity to each other. For departing passengers, the path is standard: flight check-in, baggage drop, and then passing through security control, which leads to a comfortable departure lounge with boarding gates. The arrival zone is located in another part of the building and is equipped with a baggage claim belt. After collecting their belongings, passengers exit into the main hall, where they can be met by others or access taxi and car rental services.

Thanks to the small size of the airport, all procedures are completed very quickly. Check-in and screening usually take no more than 15-20 minutes, even during peak hours. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure to complete all formalities without rushing, enjoy a coffee in the local café, and relax before your flight. Navigation through the terminal will not cause any difficulties: all signs are clear, and staff are always ready to assist.

The history of Kalgoorlie Airport is inextricably linked with the development of the gold-rich lands of Western Australia. Although the first flights in the region took place earlier, the official starting point for regular air service is considered to be 1929. It was then that the first airmail service was launched, connecting Kalgoorlie with Perth and establishing a vital link with the rest of the country. In those years, the small airfield played a key role in delivering mail, cargo, and passengers to this remote but economically important region.

With the onset of World War II, the strategic importance of the airport increased manifold. It was transferred to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and used as a military base. The airfield served as an important transit point for aircraft and personnel, as well as a pilot training base. This period left a noticeable mark on the airport's history, highlighting its importance not only for civil but also for defence needs of the country.

After the war, with a new wave of development in the mining industry, Kalgoorlie Airport entered an era of rapid growth. The increase in passenger flow and cargo volumes required serious infrastructure modernization. The culmination of this process was the opening of a new modern terminal in 1992. This multi-million dollar project radically changed the appearance of the city's air gateway and allowed for the servicing of a growing number of flights, including those related to popular FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) work.

Today, Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport is a modern transport hub that serves as the heart of the Goldfields region. Its history is a reflection of the city's own history: from the gold rush times to its status as a major industrial centre. An interesting fact: the airport still plays an indispensable role in supporting the mining industry, receiving and sending hundreds of workers daily. It serves not just as a point on the map, but as a true bridge connecting this unique corner of Australia with the world.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport (KGI), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is a modern regional terminal focused on the convenience of both tourists and business travellers.

Operating within the airport is The Airport Cafe & Bar, where you can have a snack, order hot meals, sandwiches, as well as drink coffee or soft drinks. A small shop is also located here, selling souvenirs, press, and travel goods. For passengers travelling with Qantas and holding the appropriate status, the Qantas Regional Lounge is available, offering a more private and comfortable setting.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the terminal. Charging stations for electronic devices are also equipped in the departure lounge. ATMs are installed at the airport for cash withdrawals, however, currency exchange services are limited, so it is recommended to arrange this in advance. Parent and child rooms are provided for passengers with young children.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility. There are ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and dedicated parking spaces. Passengers requiring additional assistance can contact their airline in advance to arrange support. In case first aid is needed, first aid kits are available at the airport, and staff are trained to act in emergency situations.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, many accommodation options are located just a few minutes' drive away in the city of Kalgoorlie. For business travellers, the airport offers conference room rental and meeting rooms equipped with everything necessary for conducting meetings and events.

Kalgoorlie Airport (KGI), being an important regional hub, offers passengers compact yet convenient options for snacks and relaxation before departure. It is important to understand that the choice of establishments here corresponds to the airport's size and is focused on meeting the basic needs of travellers.

All dining services are concentrated in one main café, which is located in the general hall of the terminal, before the security zone (landside). This means it is accessible not only to departing passengers but also to those meeting them. The location before security control allows you to have a snack calmly without worrying about the time needed to pass through screening.

The café menu offers a classic selection of dishes, ideal for a quick snack or a light lunch. Here you will find:

• Hot dishes, such as traditional Australian meat pies and pastries.
• Fresh sandwiches, rolls, and salads.
• Various pastries, muffins, and other sweets to accompany tea or coffee.
• Hot and cold drinks, including freshly brewed coffee, tea, juices, and sparkling water.

The café also offers a selection of beverages for those who wish to relax. Regarding specialised diets (vegetarian, gluten-free), the selection is usually very limited. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are advised to bring food with them or check for suitable options on-site in advance.

The establishment's opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule — it opens before the first departure and closes after the last one leaves. The price range is average for airports, slightly higher than in the city, but quite acceptable. For a quick snack, coffee with pastries is perfect, and if you want a more substantial lunch, a hot pie or a fresh sandwich would be a good choice. For gourmet meals and restaurant service, it is better to visit one of the establishments in Kalgoorlie itself before travelling to the airport.

Travelling through Kalgoorlie Airport (KGI), like most regional airports in Australia, is usually easy and stress-free. However, a few tips will help make your experience even more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport is small and efficient. For domestic flights, it is generally sufficient to arrive 60-90 minutes before departure. This time is enough to drop off luggage and pass security control without rushing. Always check your airline's recommendations, but in most cases, the process is very quick. To save time, complete online check-in and save your boarding pass on your phone.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If possible, choose a window seat — during takeoff and landing, impressive views of the endless expanses of the Australian outback open up. Regarding hand luggage, remember standard rules: liquids in containers no larger than 100ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited. All electronics, especially those with lithium batteries (power banks), must be in hand luggage, not in checked baggage.

Controls and Transfers. There is no international customs control at the airport, but Western Australia has strict biosecurity rules. Be prepared for checks for fresh fruit, vegetables, plants, or honey, which may be prohibited from entering the state. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. In most cases, when flying with a single carrier, luggage will be transferred automatically.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, book flight tickets in advance and consider bringing permitted snacks with you, as the selection at the small airport may be limited and prices higher. In case of a flight delay, follow information on the display screens and in the airline's app. Waiting facilities in the terminal are basic, so a book or a downloaded movie will be very useful. Airline staff will provide information about your rights to rebooking or compensation in accordance with the carrier's rules.