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King Island Airport

About the Airport

King Island Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

King Island Airport is not merely a point on a map, but a true gateway to the world of wildlife and the culinary delights of Tasmania. Located amidst the winds of the Bass Strait, it is the first to welcome travellers eager to conquer famous golf courses or enjoy local delicacies. This cosy air harbour sets a relaxed rhythm for the entire journey, immersing guests in an atmosphere of island hospitality from the very first minutes after landing.

IATA Code KNS
ICAO Code YKII
City Currie
Distance to Centre 7 km
Status Domestic
Passengers per Year ~45,000
Schedule Available on the official website

The airport boasts several unique features that make it a vital hub for the region:

  • Walking Distance Convenience: The compact terminal allows you to complete all procedures—from baggage drop to boarding—in just a few minutes, eliminating the risk of being late due to queues.
  • Gateway for Golfers: The airport is a key arrival point for golf enthusiasts from around the world seeking to reach the famous Cape Wickham and Ocean Dunes courses.
  • Parking Convenience: Free parking is available for travellers in the immediate vicinity of the terminal, which is a rarity for many airports.
  • Atmosphere: There is no hustle and bustle of major hubs here; the friendly staff and calm environment immediately set the mood for relaxation, while the windows offer views of the rugged yet picturesque island landscapes.

Contact Information

If you need to contact the King Island Airport administration or clarify details regarding its operation, please use the following contact details:

  • Official Website: Information about the airport can be found on the King Island Council website: kingisland.tas.gov.au
  • Inquiry Desk Phone: +61 3 6462 1355
  • Airport Address: 291 Morrison Avenue, Loorana, Tasmania 7256, Australia
  • Email: For general inquiries, you can use the Council email: kicouncil@kingisland.tas.gov.au
  • Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline you flew with directly.
  • Passenger Support Service: For questions related to flight schedules, bookings, and other carrier services, please contact your airline. For general questions regarding terminal operations, you may call the main airport number.

How to Get to the Airport

King Island Airport (KNS) is located near the island's main town, Currie, making the journey there quick and convenient. Since King Island is a small and relatively secluded island in Australia, transport options here have their own specifics, and it is better to plan your movements in advance.

Car Rental is the most popular and practical way to get around the island, including trips to the airport. Many tourists prefer to book a car in advance and pick it up right upon arrival. This gives complete freedom to explore the island's numerous attractions. The drive from the centre of Currie to the airport takes just 5–10 minutes. Most rental companies have desks or representatives within the terminal.

Taxis and Private Transfers are a reliable alternative. There are a few taxi services operating on the island, but their numbers are limited. It is strongly recommended to book a car in advance, especially if your flight arrives or departs late in the evening or early in the morning. The cost of the trip will be moderate due to the short distance, but this is a less flexible option compared to renting a car.

It is important to note that public transport, such as regular bus routes, is practically non-existent on King Island. Therefore, one should not rely on buses for trips to the airport. Planning a taxi ride or renting a car are the primary ways to get to the terminal.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is available. Given the size of the airport, the car park is usually located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal and is often free for both short-term and long-term stays, which is very convenient for travellers.

Terminals and Map

King Island Airport (KNS) is a compact and convenient regional aviation hub that perfectly matches the calm pace of life on the island itself. There is only one terminal here, serving both arriving and departing flights. Such a simple structure makes navigation intuitively clear and saves travellers from the need to move between different buildings or floors.

The terminal layout is extremely logical. Check-in counters and baggage drop-off are located immediately at the entrance. After passing through standard procedures, passengers enter a small waiting lounge where they can comfortably await boarding. The arrivals area is located in the same building and consists of a baggage claim point and an exit to the public zone. All key points—from check-in to boarding or exiting the airport—are within a minute's walking distance of each other.

Thanks to the low passenger traffic, all pre-flight formalities at King Island Airport are completed very quickly. Flight check-in and security screening usually take minimal time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60 minutes before departure to drop off luggage, pass through control, and take your seat in the waiting lounge without rushing. This is standard practice for regional airports of this size.

It is practically impossible to get lost at King Island Airport. All necessary infrastructure is located in one small and comprehensible space. Inside the terminal, there are basic amenities such as washrooms and car rental desks. It is a simple and functional airport, created for the maximum convenience of passengers arriving on this picturesque island or departing from it.

Airport History

The history of King Island Airport (KNS) is a chronicle of the transformation of an isolated island into an accessible and thriving region. The first steps in aviation were taken here back in the 1930s, when irregular flights connected the island with mainland Australia, and aircraft landed on simple dirt strips. Official development of the airport began in the post-war years when an acute need arose for stable transport links to support the growing economy and meet the needs of the local population.

Key stages of modernisation were aimed at increasing the safety and capacity of the air harbour. Soon after its foundation, the main runway was built and paved, allowing flights to be received in almost any weather. Later, the infrastructure was supplemented with modern navigation systems and lighting equipment. The most large-scale reconstruction was carried out between 2018 and 2020: the runway was significantly strengthened, opening the possibility for accepting larger aircraft and giving a powerful boost to the development of tourism and cargo transportation.

Throughout its history, King Island Airport has not been just a transport hub, but a true "lifeline" for the islanders. Its role became indispensable in emergency situations, especially for the medical evacuation of residents to the mainland. There were times when sea connections were interrupted due to severe storms, and only aviation ensured the delivery of food and essential goods, confirming its strategically important status.

Interestingly, it is through this airport that the island's world-famous produce is exported, including King Island Dairy cheeses and marbled beef. Today, the airport serves not only local residents but also a constantly growing stream of tourists. Travellers are primarily attracted by the world-renowned golf courses. Thus, King Island Airport is a vivid example of how modern aviation infrastructure contributes to the prosperity of even the most remote corners of the planet.

Services and Amenities

King Island Airport (KNS) is a small regional airport serving King Island in Australia. Given its compact dimensions, the range of services here is basic but sufficient for a comfortable wait for your flight. The airport's infrastructure is oriented towards servicing local and regional flights.

A small café operates within the terminal, where passengers can purchase light snacks, sandwiches, pastries, as well as hot and cold drinks. This is the main place to have a bite before departure. Shopping opportunities are limited, so it is better to take care of purchasing souvenirs or specific goods in advance in the island's towns, such as Currie.

For the convenience of passengers, charging points for mobile devices may be available in the waiting lounge. Regarding wireless internet, access to Wi-Fi may be limited or provided under certain conditions, so it is recommended to check information on-site. There are no specialised VIP lounges at the airport, however, the main waiting hall offers enough space for all passengers.

Financial services, such as currency exchange and bank branches, are not represented at King Island Airport. Travellers should take care of exchanging money in major cities of Australia in advance. Standard amenities are available for passengers with children, including baby changing tables in the washrooms. For travellers with reduced mobility, basic accessibility conditions are provided, but you should notify your airline in advance regarding the need for special assistance, for example, when boarding the aircraft.

There are no hotels, business centres, or conference rooms directly in the airport building. The nearest accommodation options are located in the town of Currie and other settlements on the island. Medical assistance is limited to first aid provided by airport staff.

Where to Eat

King Island Airport (KNS) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited but reflects the hospitable character of the island. A small café operates in the main and only terminal building, serving all passengers and airport visitors.

This café is a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with the gastronomic symbols of the island even before departure. Pay attention to dishes that use world-famous local products. You can often find sandwiches, pies, or platters featuring the famous King Island cheese or dishes with succulent local beef on the menu. This is a great way to enjoy the authentic taste of Australia one last time.

Regarding special dietary requirements, the choice may be limited. Basic vegetarian options, such as a salad and cheese sandwich, are usually available. However, finding certified Halal, vegan, or diverse gluten-free dishes in such a small airport is likely not possible. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with the café staff. Prices here are moderate, at the level of standard cafés in Australian regions.

The café's opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule: it opens shortly before the first departure and closes after the last aircraft leaves. The establishment is located in the public zone (landside), before security control, so it is accessible to both departing and arriving passengers as well as those meeting them. Coffee with fresh pastries is suitable for a quick snack, while for a more substantial lunch, you can choose a hot pie or sandwich with local delicacies.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through King Island Airport goes as comfortably as possible, please make use of our tips. This small regional airport has its own specifics, and knowing them will help you avoid unnecessary hassle.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights, which are the main ones for this airport, it is usually sufficient to arrive 1–1.5 hours before departure. This time is enough to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through screening without rushing.

Check-in and Screening: Procedures at King Island Airport are significantly faster than in major hubs. However, do not leave them until the last moment. Security services operate according to standard Australia rules; be ready to present your boarding pass and identification.

Seat Selection: Flights to and from the island offer stunning views of the coastline and the Bass Strait. To enjoy them fully, try to select a window seat during online check-in.

Hand Luggage: Standard restrictions apply to carrying liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) and a ban on sharp objects. Please note that regional airlines serving King Island often have stricter standards regarding the weight and dimensions of hand luggage than major carriers. Clarify this information in advance on your airline's website.

Connecting Passengers: King Island Airport mainly serves direct flights. If you have a connection planned at another airport (for example, in Melbourne or northern Tasmania), you will likely need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight again.

Biosecurity and Customs: This is a critically important point. Although flights are domestic, the state of Tasmania, to which King Island belongs, has strict biosecurity rules to protect its unique ecosystem. You are obliged to declare or dispose of any fresh food, fruits, vegetables, plants, and certain animal products in special bins at the airport. Large fines are prescribed for violations.

Saving Time and Money: The best way to save is to book tickets well in advance. It is also strongly recommended to rent a car in advance, as the number of vehicles on the island is limited, and there may be no available options upon arrival.

Flight Delays: In case of schedule changes, contact your airline representative directly. Since the terminal is small and leisure options are limited, it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you in case of a long wait.

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