Brisbane Airport Ground Transport
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Brisbane Airport is located about 17 km northeast of Brisbane’s city centre and offers several convenient transportation options connecting the airport with the city, nearby suburbs, and tourist destinations such as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Passengers can choose between trains, shuttle buses, taxis, ride-sharing services, rental cars, or private vehicles. Most transport services depart directly from the arrivals areas of both the Domestic and International Terminals, making transfers quick and easy.
If you are arriving during peak travel times (early morning or late afternoon), trains are often the fastest way to reach the city because they avoid road traffic.
Train – Airtrain Service
The Airtrain is the main public transport link between Brisbane Airport and the city. The railway line opened in 2001 and directly connects both airport terminals with the Brisbane suburban rail network. :
Airtrain stations are located within walking distance of the Domestic Terminal and International Terminal. The trains run frequently throughout the day and provide direct connections to major stations including Central Station, Roma Street, Fortitude Valley, and South Bank.
The journey to Brisbane’s city centre usually takes around 20–25 minutes, with services running every 15–30 minutes depending on the time of day.
- Brisbane City (Central Station): about 20 minutes
- Roma Street Station: about 24 minutes
- Gold Coast: around 90 minutes (train + tram)
Typical fares are around AUD $22.30 for an adult ticket between the airport and the Brisbane city stations.
If you pre-purchase tickets online or travel as a group, discounted fares may be available.
Buses and Shuttle Services
Several bus and shared shuttle services operate from Brisbane Airport. These services are useful for travelers heading to hotels, suburbs not directly connected by train, or tourist destinations along the coast.
One of the most popular shuttle companies is Con-X-ion, which offers door-to-door transport from the airport to hotels and accommodation across Brisbane and surrounding regions.
- Brisbane City hotels: around AUD $30 – $35
- Gold Coast transfers: around AUD $40 – $60
- Sunshine Coast transfers: around AUD $50 – $70
Shared shuttle services may take longer than taxis or trains because they make multiple stops along the route.
If you are traveling with a group, shared shuttle services can sometimes be cheaper than multiple train tickets.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
Taxi ranks are located directly outside the arrivals areas of both terminals. Brisbane taxis operate with standard metered fares and are available 24 hours a day.
Ride-sharing services such as Uber, DiDi, and Ola also operate at the airport and have designated pickup areas near the terminals.
The trip to the city centre typically takes around 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
- Brisbane CBD: AUD $45 – $55
- South Bank: AUD $45 – $60
- Gold Coast: AUD $110 – $150
Ride-sharing prices can fluctuate depending on demand, so comparing Uber, DiDi, and taxis can help you find the best fare.
Car Rental at Brisbane Airport
Car rental is a popular option for travelers who want to explore Queensland independently. Rental desks are located inside the arrivals areas of both terminals, while vehicle pickup areas are located in nearby parking facilities.
Major car rental companies operating at Brisbane Airport include:
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Thrifty
- Enterprise
Typical rental prices range between AUD $50 and $120 per day depending on the vehicle type and season.
Renting a car is particularly useful if you plan to visit destinations such as the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, or national parks outside Brisbane.
See more information
Queensland highways are well maintained and easy to navigate, making road trips a popular way to explore the region.
Arriving by Private Car
Brisbane Airport is easily accessible via the Gateway Motorway, one of the main highways connecting the airport with Brisbane and surrounding regions.
Estimated driving times include:
- Brisbane CBD: 20 minutes
- South Bank: 25 minutes
- Gold Coast: about 1 hour
- Sunshine Coast: about 1 hour 30 minutes
The airport offers several parking options including short-term, long-term, and budget parking facilities near both terminals.
Booking airport parking online can often provide significant discounts compared with paying at the parking entrance.