Merimbula Airport

Merimbula Airport (MIM) is not merely a transport hub, but a picturesque aerial gateway to the famous Sapphire Coast of New South Wales. The approach here offers passengers unforgettable views of the turquoise waters of Merimbula Lake and the endless ocean, setting the mood for a holiday even before the wheels touch the runway. This cosy regional hub allows travellers to instantly switch from the bustle of metropolises to the measured pace of coastal life, offering comfort and a lack of queues.

Airport Features and Advantages

A key advantage of this air harbour is its exceptionally convenient location. The airport is located just two kilometres from the city centre, allowing tourists to reach their hotel or the beach literally within 5–10 minutes of landing. The compact size of the single terminal ensures that all procedures — from check-in to baggage claim — are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The airport is also renowned for its relaxing atmosphere. There is none of the noise and stress typical of major international hubs. Passengers can enjoy a cup of coffee in the café overlooking the airfield and the surrounding natural landscapes. Friendly staff and simple navigation make the beginning and end of a coastal journey easy and pleasant.

For the most up-to-date information regarding the operation of Merimbula Airport (MIM), flight schedules, and services, it is recommended to consult official sources or contact the airlines directly.

• Official Website: Current information about the airport is available on the official website of the Bega Valley Shire Council, which manages the airport.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For general enquiries, you can contact the managing council by phone: +61 2 6499 2222.
• Airport Address: Arthur Kaine Dr, Merimbula NSW 2548, Australia.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the general council email: council@begavalley.nsw.gov.au.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own social media pages. News and updates are published on the Bega Valley Shire Council's resources.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged checked baggage, please contact your airline directly (e.g., QantasLink or Rex Airlines). If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, contact the general airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Questions regarding bookings, ticket changes, flight check-in, and special assistance are handled through your airline's support service.

Merimbula Airport (MIM) is located in close proximity to the city, just a few minutes' drive away, so getting there is straightforward. The choice of transport depends on your budget, time, and plans for further travel along the scenic coast of Australia.

The most convenient and fastest way to reach the terminal is by taxi or pre-booked transfer. The journey from the centre of Merimbula will take no more than 5–10 minutes. Given the short distance, the cost of the trip will be quite reasonable. This option is ideal for travellers with bulky luggage or those who are in a hurry for their flight and value comfort.

For more budget-conscious tourists, there is the option of using local buses. It is worth noting that there may not be a direct route to the terminal entrance, and buses in small towns run less frequently than in major cities. We recommend checking the current schedule and routes on the local transport company's website in advance to plan your journey and find the stop nearest to the airport.

If you plan to move actively around the region, the best solution would be car rental. Counters for several rental companies operate at the airport or nearby, where you can pick up a car immediately upon arrival or arrange a booking in advance. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, parking is provided. Typically, in such small airports, both short-term and long-term parking options are available at reasonable rates.

Merimbula Airport (MIM) is a small regional airport characterised by a simple and clear structure. It operates one passenger terminal, serving all domestic flights — both departures and arrivals. Thanks to its compactness, the airport is very convenient for passengers, and it is practically impossible to get lost here.

The terminal building is a single space where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Check-in counters, the security screening area, a small departure lounge, and the baggage claim belt for arriving passengers are all located on one level. Such a simple layout makes navigation intuitively clear even for those visiting for the first time.

Completing all pre-flight procedures at Merimbula Airport takes a minimal amount of time. Flight check-in and security screening proceed quickly, without the long queues characteristic of major aviation hubs. As a rule, arriving at the airport 45-60 minutes before departure is quite sufficient, although it is always better to verify the recommendations of your airline.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, transfers between zones are not required. All signage is clear and distinct. The main recommendation for travellers is not to worry about complex navigation. You will easily find everything you need, from the check-in counter to the boarding gate, in literally a couple of minutes. It is an ideal example of a small and efficient airport where everything is designed for passenger convenience.

The history of Merimbula Airport (MIM) is a clear example of the development of regional aviation in Australia. Its journey began in the 1950s with a simple grass runway, and the official opening took place in 1962. This moment became the starting point for transforming a secluded coastal town into a popular tourist destination accessible by air.

Over the years, the airport in Merimbula has continuously developed to meet growing demand. Key stages included paving and gradually lengthening the runway. These improvements allowed for the accommodation of larger and faster turboprop aircraft, such as the Dash 8, which became the backbone of air links with Sydney and Melbourne for many years.

The most significant modernisation in the airport's history occurred in the early 2020s. As part of a large-scale project, the runway was again lengthened and strengthened, a modern lighting system was installed, and terminal infrastructure was updated. This reconstruction was aimed at enabling the airport to receive modern jet aircraft, opening new prospects for direct flights from major Australian cities and further tourism growth.

Beyond its commercial role, Merimbula Airport has repeatedly proven its vital importance to the local community. During natural disasters, particularly devastating bushfires, it served as a key base for emergency services, aerial firefighting, and the coordination of rescue operations. This highlights its status not just as a transport hub, but as a strategically important facility for the entire Sapphire Coast region.

Merimbula Airport (MIM) is a small regional airport serving the picturesque Sapphire Coast in Australia. Despite its compact size, it provides passengers with all the basic amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight.

Dining and Shopping. A small café operates in the terminal where you can have a snack, order sandwiches, pastries, as well as coffee or soft drinks. This is a great place to pass the time before departure. There are no specialised shops at the airport, but basic necessities can be purchased at the café.

Lounges and Wi-Fi. A general waiting hall with comfortable seating is available for all passengers. There are no dedicated VIP lounges at the airport. Passengers can utilise free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, as well as find power outlets to charge their electronic devices.

Financial and Other Services. There are no bank branches or currency exchange points in the airport building, however, an ATM is available for cash withdrawals. Medical services are limited to first aid provided by airport staff. For passengers with small children, a parents' room equipped with a changing table is provided.

Accessibility and Accommodation. The terminal is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance if special assistance is required. There are no hotels on the airport grounds, but a multitude of accommodation options — from hotels to apartments — can be found in the city of Merimbula itself, which is just a few minutes' drive away. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are absent at the airport.

Merimbula Airport (MIM) is a small regional air station, so the choice of dining establishments corresponds to its size. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants as in major international hubs, however, all basic amenities are provided for a comfortable wait for your flight.

The main and, typically, the only place where you can have a snack is the café in the main terminal hall. It is located in the public zone (before security control), so it is accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. Its opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule — the café opens before departures and closes after the last aircraft leaves.

The café menu offers a standard set for a quick bite: freshly brewed coffee, tea, soft drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and various snacks like chips and chocolate. Sometimes you can find hot pies — a popular option in Australia for a hearty meal on the go. This is an ideal place to have a cup of coffee before your flight or grab something to take on board.

Regarding special dietary requirements, options are quite limited. Finding specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes may be difficult. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them or have a meal at one of the establishments in the city of Merimbula before travelling to the airport. For a full lunch or dinner, it is also better to choose a restaurant in the city.

Prices at the airport, as in most such places, may be slightly higher than in city cafés but remain within reason. Overall, Merimbula Airport offers simple and convenient solutions for those who wish to refresh themselves before departure without leaving the terminal building.

Travelling through a regional airport, such as Merimbula Airport, usually proceeds easily and without fuss. However, a few useful tips will help make your trip even more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For domestic flights within Australia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60–90 minutes before departure. This time is quite sufficient for calmly completing all procedures at the small airport of Merimbula, even if you are travelling with luggage or flying during the peak tourist season.

Check-in and Security: Queues for check-in and security control are a rarity here. To speed up the process, check in for your flight online and have your boarding pass ready (on your phone or printed) along with your ID. The screening procedure is standard but proceeds very quickly.

Seat Selection: If possible, choose a window seat. Flights from and to Merimbula reveal incredible views of the coast and surrounding nature, especially during takeoff and landing. This is a wonderful opportunity to take some excellent photos.

Hand Luggage: Standard security rules apply here as well. Remember that all liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp and cutting objects are prohibited in the cabin. Check the permissible weight and dimensions of hand luggage on your airline's website in advance.

Connecting Passengers: Merimbula Airport serves direct flights to major hubs such as Sydney and Melbourne. If you have a connecting flight, it will take place at the arrival airport. Ensure you have enough time between flights to transfer to the next gate or even change terminals.

Customs Control: It is important to know that there is no international customs or passport control at Merimbula Airport, as it serves only domestic flights. If you are arriving in Australia from another country, you will complete all formalities at your first airport of arrival (for example, in Sydney or Melbourne).

Saving Time and Money: The simplest way to save time is to complete online check-in. To save money, book tickets in advance and compare prices across different carriers. You can also bring non-liquid snacks with you, as the choice of cafés in the terminal is limited.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative for current information. Given the compact size of the airport, there is not much entertainment for a long wait, so bring a book, headphones, or a charged power bank with you.