Lismore Airport

Lismore Airport (LSY) is not just a runway, but an important aviation hub for the Northern Rivers region in Australia. Historically serving as a gateway for passenger transport, today it plays a key role in supporting the local community, serving as a base for emergency services, flight schools, and private aviation. The airport has undergone significant changes, adapting to new realities and continuing to contribute to the life of the city of Lismore.

Despite the cessation of scheduled commercial flights, Lismore Airport remains an active and significant facility. Its main feature today is its multifunctionality. It is the base for the Westpac Northern Region Rescue Helicopter Service, which plays a vital role in the region. Additionally, the airport is a centre for flight training, hosting organisations such as the Northern Rivers Aero Club and Airways Aviation, which offer pilot training.

For general aviation needs and charter flights, the airport operates a modern terminal with basic amenities and parking. Although it no longer handles daily passenger flows, its infrastructure supports private flights, medical aviation, and aircraft maintenance, making it an indispensable element of the region's transport system.

For your convenience, we have compiled key contact details for Lismore Airport (LSY). Since the airport is managed by the City Council, many general inquiries should be directed to this organisation. It is always recommended to check official sources for the most up-to-date information.

• Official Website: Detailed information on flights, services, and the latest news can be found on the official airport page on the City Council website at lismore.nsw.gov.au.
• Helpdesk Phone: For general support and answers to questions about airport operations, you can contact the Lismore City Council by phone: +61 2 6625 0500.
• Airport Address: 135 Three Chain Rd, South Lismore NSW 2480, Australia.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the City Council email address: council@lismore.nsw.gov.au.
• Social Media: Current news and operational updates regarding the airport may be published on the official Lismore City Council social media pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: Please note that for all issues related to lost, delayed, or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline directly. Airport services do not process baggage claims.

Getting to Lismore Airport (LSY) from the city centre of Lismore is quite simple, as it is located just 5 kilometres south of the business district. The trip usually takes no more than 10 minutes, but the choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences.

Taxis and Shuttles. The fastest and most convenient way to get to the airport is by taxi or a pre-booked transfer (shuttle). Several taxi companies operate in the city. The ride from the centre to the terminal will take about 5-10 minutes. This is an ideal option if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group. The cost will depend on the carrier's rates and the time of day.

Public Transport. There are generally no direct public transport routes to the terminal building itself. However, local bus lines pass nearby. This option may suit budget travellers travelling light, but be prepared to walk some distance from the nearest stop. It is recommended to check schedules and routes on local transport company websites in advance.

Car Rental. If you plan to move actively around the region and explore the beauty of Australia, renting a car is an excellent choice. You can rent a car in the city and return it at the company's airport office before departure (if such a service is provided). This gives maximum freedom of movement.

Airport Parking. For those arriving by private or rented car, parking is provided at Lismore Airport. Options are usually available for both short-term (pick-up or drop-off) and long-term parking for the duration of your trip. Parking spaces are located in immediate proximity to the terminal.

If you have not found suitable flights to Lismore, consider flying into one of the neighbouring, larger airports. From there, you can get to Lismore by rental car or intercity bus. The nearest options include Ballina Byron Gateway Airport (BNK), located just 30 km away, and the major international Gold Coast Airport (OOL) approximately 78 km away. Also within a few hours' drive are Grafton Airport (GFN), Brisbane Airport (BNE), and Coffs Harbour Airport (CFS).

Lismore Airport (LSY) is a small regional airport, so its structure is extremely simple and intuitive for passengers. There is only one terminal here, which serves all domestic flights, both arrivals and departures. Thanks to its compact size, navigating the airport causes no difficulties even for those here for the first time.

The terminal layout is very logical. Upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general hall. Airline check-in counters, the baggage claim area, and main amenities are located here. Departure and arrival zones are in the same building and flow smoothly into one another. After check-in, passengers pass through a small security checkpoint and enter a comfortable waiting lounge before boarding. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Lismore Airport takes minimum time. Check-in and security screening usually proceed very quickly, without the long queues characteristic of major aviation hubs in Australia. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure to calmly check in luggage and go through all procedures without rushing.

The main advice for navigation is not to worry. It is practically impossible to get lost at LSY Airport. All important zones — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are within direct line of sight. Signs are clear and understandable. If you have questions, airport staff are always ready to help. This is one of those airports where the journey begins with comfort and calm, rather than stress.

The history of Lismore Airport (LSY) spans over a hundred years, making it one of the oldest operating airports in Australia. Its official opening took place in 1922, when it received one of the country's first licences for air navigation activities. From the very beginning of its existence, it played a key role in connecting the Northern Rivers region with the rest of the country, serving the first mail and passenger flights.

During World War II, the airport was transferred to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and used as a training base. After the war, it returned to civil use, gradually developing and expanding its route network. In subsequent decades, the airport became an important transport hub, providing regular connections to major cities, primarily Sydney.

One of the most dramatic and at the same time heroic periods in the airport's history is related to its vulnerability to floods. Located in a low-lying area, it has repeatedly suffered from river overflows. The flood in 2022 was particularly devastating, when the runway and terminal were completely underwater. However, as soon as the water began to recede, the airport transformed into a vital centre for rescue operations, receiving helicopters with evacuated residents and delivering humanitarian aid.

These events highlighted the need for modernisation and increasing the resilience of infrastructure to natural disasters. Today, Lismore Airport continues to play an indispensable role in the life of the region, not only as a transport hub for passengers and cargo but also as a strategic facility ensuring connection with the outside world in emergency situations. Its century-long history is a chronicle of aviation development and the resilience of the local community.

Lismore Airport (LSY) is a compact regional airport in Australia that provides passengers with all basic amenities for a comfortable journey. Although the range of services here is not as wide as in major international hubs, everything necessary for waiting for a flight is available.

A café operates within the terminal, where you can order hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. This is the main place for dining at the airport. Aside from a small kiosk with newspapers and souvenirs, there are no shops here. A general lounge is provided for waiting for boarding, while specialised VIP lounges are absent.

Passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Power outlets may be available in the waiting hall for charging gadgets. There is an ATM in the terminal building, but currency exchange services or full-service bank branches are not provided. It is recommended to handle financial matters in the city beforehand.

A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped toilets. Families with small children can use the mother and child room, equipped with a changing table. Medical services are limited to first aid provided by airport staff.

There are no hotels or business centres directly on the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options and conference rooms are located in the city of Lismore, which can be reached by taxi or rental car in a few minutes.

Lismore Airport (LSY) is a small and cosy regional aviation hub, so the choice of establishments corresponds to its compact size. Dining for passengers is organised mainly in one central café, which is conveniently located in the main terminal and serves all airport guests.

The main place to have a snack is the café in the departure lounge. It is ideal for those who want to have coffee or tea before a flight. The menu usually features:

• Hot beverages: coffee, cappuccino, tea.
• Pastries and desserts: croissants, muffins, cakes.
• Light snacks: sandwiches, rolls, salads.
• Soft drinks, juices, and water.

For a full lunch, the choice at the airport itself will be limited. The café offers light hot dishes, for example, Australian meat pies or sausage rolls, but this is more of a fast-food format. If you have time, it is better to have lunch at one of the restaurants in the city of Lismore itself before arriving at the airport. Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian sandwiches may be available; however, choices for vegans or people with gluten intolerance will likely be minimal. It is recommended to check the availability of such options on-site.

The café is located in the public zone (landside) of the main terminal, so it can be accessed both before and after flight check-in, as well as by those meeting passengers. Its opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule — it opens shortly before the first flight and closes after the departure of the last one. Prices here are average for airports in Australia: slightly higher than in the city, but quite acceptable for a quick snack before a flight.

Travelling through a regional airport, such as the airport in the city of Lismore, is usually calmer than through major international hubs. Nevertheless, to avoid any surprises, it is worth following a few simple rules. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be more than enough to complete all pre-flight formalities without rushing.

To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or security screening. Procedures at Lismore Airport usually go quickly, but do not relax: security rules here are just as strict as everywhere else in Australia. To save money, bring snacks and drinks bought in the city, as the selection in the small terminal is limited and prices are higher.

Pay special attention to the contents of your carry-on luggage. Standard restrictions on carrying liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) and sharp objects apply here as well. Furthermore, Australia has very strict biosecurity rules. Do not attempt to transport fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy products, or plants without special permission. If you have doubts, it is better to declare all items at customs control to avoid large fines.

If you have a connecting flight, for example, in Sydney or Brisbane, check with the airline in advance whether your luggage will be checked through automatically to the final destination. Also, to make the trip from the airport to the hotel more cost-effective, book a taxi or transfer in advance — this is often cheaper than looking for a car upon arrival. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer you beautiful views of the picturesque Northern Rivers region, while an aisle seat ensures more freedom of movement.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for the latest information. Keep all necessary documents and a phone charger handy. A small supply of food and water, bought in advance at city prices, can also be useful and help avoid extra spending. Stay calm — airport staff will do everything possible to help you continue your journey as soon as possible.