Mount Gambier Airport

Mount Gambier Airport is not merely a transit point, but a true aerial gateway to the mysterious Limestone Coast and the famous Blue Lake. This cosy aviation hub instantly immerses travellers in the relaxed atmosphere of the Australian outback, combining the modern design of its recently renovated terminal with sincere provincial hospitality. Here, amidst the picturesque plains of South Australia, begins your introduction to a land of extinct volcanoes and sunken gardens, offering an easy and inspiring start to any adventure.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Mount Gambier Airport stands out among regional aviation hubs for its commitment to maximum passenger comfort while maintaining compactness. The airport's main pride is the new terminal, with reconstruction completed in 2021. The building impresses with panoramic glazing that fills the halls with natural light, and a modern design that harmoniously blends with the surrounding landscape.

A key advantage for travellers is the speed and lack of queues. Thanks to well-thought-out logistics, the journey from the building entrance to the boarding gate takes mere minutes. This allows passengers to avoid arriving hours before departure, saving precious time for sightseeing or relaxing. The airport staff are known for their friendliness and readiness to assist, creating a calm and welcoming environment.

Furthermore, the airport serves as the ideal starting point for exploring the Limestone Coast region. Its location allows you to rent a car immediately upon arrival and quickly reach the Coonawarra vineyards, the Naracoorte Caves, or the famous sinkholes for which this part of the continent is renowned.

• Official Website: www.dcgrant.sa.gov.au/services/mount-gambier-regional-airport (Airport page on the District Council of Grant website)
• Enquiries Phone: +61 8 8725 1112 (Airport Administration)
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Wandilo SA 5291, Australia
• Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form or administration email found on the official website.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate social media pages. News and updates are published on the District Council of Grant's resources.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline you flew with directly (e.g., Rex or QantasLink).
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions about airport operations, you can call the main phone number. For information regarding flights, bookings, and other flight-related services, please contact your airline.

Mount Gambier Airport (MGB) is located just 11 kilometres north of the city centre of Mount Gambier, making the journey there quick and convenient. There are several ways to get from the city to the airport, suitable for different budgets and travel plans across Australia.

The simplest and most predictable option is a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. The trip from the city centre will take approximately 10–15 minutes. This method is ideal if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or simply value comfort and wish to avoid transfers. The cost of the trip is calculated by the meter or a fixed rate, but due to the short distance, it remains quite reasonable.

If you plan to actively explore the picturesque region, the best choice would be car rental. Rental desks from major companies are available both in the city and directly at the airport. Having your own vehicle gives you complete freedom of movement and allows you to comfortably visit local attractions before or after your flight. The route to the airport is well-signposted, so you will find your way easily.

For those arriving in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided right at the terminal building. Mount Gambier Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking zones. This is particularly convenient for passengers departing on a short trip, or for those meeting arriving friends and relatives.

It is important to note that direct public transport connections between the city centre and the airport are generally unavailable. City bus routes do not enter the airport territory, so this option should not be considered reliable. To travel to the airport, it is recommended to plan a transfer in advance by using a taxi service or renting a car.

Mount Gambier Airport (MGB) is a modern and compact regional airport where navigation will cause no difficulties for travellers. Its infrastructure is designed for the maximum convenience of passengers embarking on journeys through the south of Australia.

The airport operates one main terminal, which services both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to its small size and logical layout, all key zones are within walking distance of each other. The terminal is a single building where getting lost is practically impossible.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where the airline check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security checkpoint, located in the same area. Security screening procedures usually pass quickly, without long queues. Immediately after screening, you will find yourself in a comfortable departure lounge with access to boarding. The arrival area is equally simple: after disembarking the aircraft, passengers enter the hall with the baggage claim area and the exit to the city.

The entire process from entering the airport to boarding, including check-in and security, rarely takes more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure to complete all formalities without haste. Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between terminals is irrelevant, significantly simplifying logistics for travellers.

The history of Mount Gambier Airport (MGB) is inextricably linked to the events of the Second World War. It was established in 1941 as a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) base named "Wandilo". The base's primary task was training navigators as part of the No. 2 Air Observers School. During the war years, thousands of service personnel trained here, making a significant contribution to the Allied war effort.

Following the end of the war, the military base was decommissioned, and in 1947, the airfield officially opened for civilian flights, receiving its modern name. This moment became a turning point in the history of the Limestone Coast region, as the airport ensured reliable and rapid connections with major cities such as Adelaide and Melbourne. The first regular passenger services fostered the development of tourism and business in this picturesque part of South Australia.

Over the decades, Mount Gambier Airport has been modernised repeatedly to meet the growing needs of passengers and airlines. The most significant reconstruction was completed in 2021. As part of this large-scale project, a completely new, modern terminal was built, the waiting area was significantly expanded, baggage handling infrastructure was improved, and comfortable conditions were created for travellers. This modernisation was the largest in the airport's history and prepared it for future growth in passenger traffic.

Today, Mount Gambier Airport is not just a runway, but an important transport node that has journeyed from a military training base to a modern regional hub. Its history reflects the development of the entire region, demonstrating the transition from wartime to an era of prosperity, tourism, and business connections. The airport continues to play a key role in the economic and social life of the Limestone Coast, remaining the main aerial gateway to this unique part of Australia.

Mount Gambier Airport (MGB) is a modern regional aviation hub in the south of Australia, offering passengers all necessary basic amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is important to understand that due to its size and status, the airport provides a compact but functional set of services focused on domestic flights.

A cafe operates within the terminal building, where you can have a snack, order sandwiches, pastries, and hot or cold beverages. This is an excellent place to pass the time before departure. There are no specialised shops or Duty-Free zones at the airport, so it is recommended to make any necessary purchases in the city of Mount Gambier beforehand.

A comfortable waiting lounge is available to passengers. For those who need to stay connected or work, the terminal provides free Wi-Fi, as well as power outlets and charging stations for mobile devices. Designated VIP halls or business lounges are not provided at the airport.

The airport infrastructure is adapted for passengers with reduced mobility and includes accessible restrooms and ramps. For families with small children, baby changing tables are provided in the restrooms. There are no separate play areas for children.

Mount Gambier Airport does not have bank branches, currency exchange points, or permanent medical centres. It is recommended to settle all financial matters in advance. There are also no hotels or conference rooms on the premises; however, a wide selection of accommodation options and business services is available in the nearby city of Mount Gambier, which is just a few minutes' drive from the terminal.

Mount Gambier Airport (MGB) is a regional airport, so dining options here are quite compact and oriented towards the convenience of passengers waiting for their flight. All infrastructure is concentrated in one terminal, making navigation very simple.

The main and only place to get a bite to eat is The Hangar Cafe, located in the main hall of the terminal. It is situated in the public area (before security control), so it is accessible to departing and arriving passengers as well as visitors. The cafe offers a standard range for a quick and filling snack: freshly brewed coffee, tea, soft drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and Australian meat pies. It is an ideal option for a light breakfast or lunch before your flight.

Regarding special dietary requests, choices may be limited. Usually, basic vegetarian sandwiches can be found, but for vegans, as well as for those requiring gluten-free or Halal meals, options may not be available. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you. There are no full-service restaurants with hot meals and waiter service at the airport, so for a substantial lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the establishments in the city of Mount Gambier itself.

The cafe's opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule — it opens before the first departure and closes after the last aircraft leaves. Prices correspond to the average level for Australian airports: slightly higher than in the city, but quite acceptable for a convenient snack while waiting for boarding.

Travelling through the airport of Mount Gambier city generally proceeds calmly and without fuss, which is characteristic of regional air gateways. However, knowing a few nuances will help make your trip even more comfortable. Here are some useful tips for passengers.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is quite sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option.

Hand Luggage: Strict security rules apply in Australia. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent re-sealable bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. Be sure to check the current requirements of your airline before flying.

Seat Selection and Transfers: When choosing a seat on the plane, consider that smaller aircraft are often used on regional flights. Window seats will offer you beautiful views of the South Australian landscapes, while aisle seats offer more legroom and the ability to leave the cabin faster. If you have a connecting flight at a major airport (for example, in Adelaide or Melbourne), check in advance if you will need to collect and re-check your luggage.

Customs Control: Since Mount Gambier Airport serves domestic flights, there is no customs control for departing passengers. This procedure is only undergone by travellers arriving in the country via international flights at their first airport of arrival.

Saving Time and Money: Book flight tickets and airport parking in advance — this way you can find more favourable rates. Travelling light, with only hand luggage, will save you from having to wait for baggage upon arrival. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security, and light snacks, as the selection in a small airport may be limited.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for the latest information. Keep a book handy, or download films or music — this will help pass the waiting time. Check with the airline if you are entitled to vouchers for food or drinks in the event of a long delay.