We're gearing up for a bustling holiday peak, with a forecasted 5.8 million passengers set to travel through our terminals from Friday, 13 December 2024, to Monday, 27 January 2025.

This holiday season is expected to be busy, and while there may be queues during the busy period, there will be plenty of staff on hand to ensure you get away safely.

Our multi-million-dollar capital program is also underway, which includes significant construction works and security upgrades, meaning your journey may be different than usual.

Once completed, these upgrades will significantly enhance your experience, but in the short term, there may be some disruptions and we thank you for your patience during the holidays as we work to deliver these important improvements.

• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least one hour before your domestic flight if you have only hand luggage, two hours if checking in bags, and three hours before your international flight.

• Prepare for Screening: Ensure that all carry-on items are easily accessible and follow the instructions of security staff for a smoother screening process.

• Check for Updates: Subscribe for live updates on your flight, or check the flight information displays on our website or in the terminals.

Getting to the airport

• By car: If you’re driving to the airport and plan to park, early bookings are advised to secure a spot. If you’re getting dropped off at one of our terminals, be aware that vehicles may be redirected to drop off at the arrivals level during the peak periods. Check out the live travel times on our homepage for visibility on how long it will take you to reach the terminal once you enter the Sydney Airport precinct.

• By public transport: Use the Trip Planner on the Transport for NSW website for the best travel route from your location.

• By taxi and rideshare: Taxi and rideshare services are also available to get you to the airport.

Advice for Domestic travellers

Domestic travellers with hand luggage only are advised to arrive one hour before departure. If you’re checking in bags, allow two hours.

If you’re travelling through the T2 Domestic terminal, prepare for security screening by removing laptops and aerosols from your hand luggage.

If you’re travelling through the T3 Domestic terminal, keep laptops and aerosols in your hand luggage for screening.

Check the banner on our website for live security wait times at our Domestic terminals.

Advice for International travellers

International passengers should aim to arrive three hours prior to departure unless your airline provides different guidance.

In line with the Government mandated security requirements, the T1 International terminal is currently undergoing security upgrades.

Due to upgrades, the rules for some security screening lanes will differ from others and the live wait times will be unavailable. Look out for signage and listen to guidance from the security staff to ensure a smooth journey through security.

Celebrate the Holiday Season at Sydney Airport

Whether you're embarking on a summer getaway or tackling last-minute holiday shopping, the terminals will be brimming with Christmas cheer to make your journey unforgettable.

From a Christmas gifting guru, to last minute Christmas wrapping, Christmas Bells Hops performances to a festive photobooth, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Visit the SYD Hub to check out the schedule of festive activities.