ADL Airport Insights & Guide
Key ADL Airport Topics:
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know ADL Airport
Discover Adelaide Airport, the heart of South Australia's air travel, known for its unique rooftop solar power system. This guide simplifies your journey through ADL, offering essential information for both new and seasoned travelers. From flight updates to dining options, our concise guide ensures a smooth airport experience.
Explore everything ADL has to offer, including terminal maps and parking advice, by visiting the Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly's website.
iFly Tip: Make the most of your check-in options by preparing in advance with tips from our guide.
Navigating ADL's Terminals
ADL has one main terminal with two levels, which is divided into two areas: the domestic terminal and the international terminal. The domestic terminal has 22 gates, while the international terminal has 10 gates.
Major airlines such as Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar Airways operate in the domestic terminal, while the international terminal is used by airlines such as Cathay Pacific, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines.
Passengers can easily navigate between the two areas of the terminal via a central atrium. The airport also offers a range of facilities and services, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
ADL Airport has one terminal building, making it easy for passengers to navigate between gates and facilities. The terminal is divided into two levels, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the upper level. There is a range of shops, restaurants, and services available within the terminal, including duty-free stores, ATMs, and currency exchange facilities.
Passengers can easily walk between gates and facilities within the terminal building, with no need for shuttle buses or trains. The walk time between the furthest gates is approximately 10 minutes. For those with reduced mobility or who require assistance, there are wheelchair and buggy services available. Additionally, there is a dedicated drop-off and pick-up area for passengers with disabilities located outside the terminal building.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Adelaide Airport (ADL) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from ADL-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"Adelaide Airport has a single terminal for both domestic and international flights, which makes it really easy to navigate. If you’re flying internationally, head straight to the upper level after check-in for customs and security. Domestic travelers can proceed directly to the gates after check-in on the ground floor." — John M., Glenelg, SA, August 2023
"If you’re in a rush, use the express lane at security. It’s available for premium passengers and those who purchase access. This can save you a lot of time, especially during peak hours." — Emily R., Henley Beach, SA, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The JetExpress bus service is a convenient and affordable way to get to and from the city center. It runs every 15 minutes during peak times and takes about 25 minutes to reach the CBD." — Michael T., West Beach, SA, September 2023
"If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, consider booking a ride with one of the local rideshare services. They’re usually more comfortable and can drop you off right at your terminal." — Lisa K., North Adelaide, SA, October 2023
Parking
"The long-term parking at Adelaide Airport is quite affordable compared to other major airports. If you book online in advance, you can get even better rates. There’s a shuttle service that runs every 15 minutes to take you to the terminal." — David P., Plympton, SA, November 2023
"For short-term parking, the multi-level car park is directly opposite the terminal and offers the most convenience. It’s perfect if you’re just dropping someone off or picking them up." — Sophie L., Richmond, SA, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"If you have some time before your flight, check out the local shops and eateries in the terminal. There are some great options showcasing South Australian produce and wines." — James B., Unley, SA, January 2024
"The airport lounges are a great place to relax before your flight. If you don’t have lounge access through your airline, you can purchase a day pass. It’s worth it for the complimentary food, drinks, and Wi-Fi." — Olivia N., Glenunga, SA, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Always check the flight information screens regularly, as gate changes can happen last minute. The Adelaide Airport app is also handy for real-time updates." — Chris W., Norwood, SA, March 2024
"To avoid the stress of delays, arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This gives you ample time for check-in, security, and any unexpected delays." — Anna S., Burnside, SA, April 2024
iFly Tip: Stay on schedule by adhering to cutoff times for checking in your baggage.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
ADL Airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are dropping off passengers, you can use the designated drop-off zone located on the ground level of the terminal. Please note that curbside parking is not allowed, and vehicles must not be left unattended. If you need to park your vehicle, short-term parking is available in the multi-level car park adjacent to the terminal.
If you are picking up passengers, you can use the designated pick-up zone located on the ground level of the terminal. Please note that curbside parking is not allowed, and vehicles must not be left unattended. If you arrive early, you can use the cell-phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area provides free parking for up to 30 minutes while you wait for your passenger to arrive. Once your passenger has arrived, they can contact you via phone, and you can proceed to the pick-up zone to collect them.
Parking Facilities & Options
The airport offers a variety of parking options to suit every traveler's needs. The airport has several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminals. The Short-Term car park is ideal for those who need to park for a few hours or less, while the Long-Term car park is perfect for travelers who need to park for an extended period.
If you're picking up someone from the airport, there are Cell Phone Waiting Areas located near the terminals where you can wait for your party to arrive before heading to the pick-up area. These areas are free to use and offer a convenient way to avoid circling the airport while waiting for your party.
Adelaide Airport also offers handicapped parking spaces located near the terminals. These spaces are reserved for travelers with disabilities and require a valid handicapped parking permit to use.
For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near Adelaide Airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can be a great way to save money on parking fees.
Transportation Options
Adelaide Airport (ADL) offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:
- Car Rentals: Major providers such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty are available at Adelaide Airport. The car rental facilities are conveniently located on the ground level of the terminal and can be accessed via a covered walkway. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel times.
- Taxis: Taxi services are readily available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside the terminal on the ground level. Fares are metered, with an average cost of around $25 to the city center. Note that there is an additional airport fee of $3.50 for all taxi trips originating from the airport.
- Ride-Share Services: Services such as Uber and Ola are permitted to operate at Adelaide Airport. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal on the ground level. Restrictions may apply depending on the type of ride requested, so it is recommended to check with the individual service provider for more information.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for both domestic and international travelers. These shuttles operate 24/7, with pickup areas located outside the terminal on the ground level. Fares vary depending on the destination but start at around $10 per person. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
- Public Transportation: The JetBus service offers regular connections to the city center from Adelaide Airport. The bus stop is located outside the terminal on the ground level, with fares starting at $5.50 for a one-way trip. The JetBus service is a cost-effective option for travelers looking to reach the city center and other destinations.
iFly Tip: Check out how airline hubs improve operational efficiency in aviation.
Airport Hotels
Looking for the perfect hotel near your travel destination? We've got you covered. Our comprehensive guide offers a review of the best hotel options that cater to every traveler's needs and preferences. From motels just a stone's throw away from the airport to charming stays nestled in the heart of the city, we've got something for everyone. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, our selection of accommodations offer a seamless connection to your flight, a range of amenities, and easy access to key city attractions. Don't wait, start exploring our ADL Hotels now!
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to make your travel experience more enjoyable. If you're looking for a quick bite, you can grab a coffee and pastry at Hudsons Coffee, located in the main terminal. For a heartier meal, head to Barossa Bar + Kitchen, which offers a menu featuring local South Australian produce and wines. If you're in the mood for Asian cuisine, visit Noodle Box, which serves up delicious stir-fries and noodle dishes.
When it comes to shopping, Adelaide Airport has a range of stores to suit all your needs. For duty-free shopping, visit JR/Duty Free, which offers a wide selection of cosmetics, fragrances, and alcohol. If you need to stock up on reading materials for your flight, head to NewsLink for a range of newspapers, magazines, and books. For last-minute travel essentials, visit Australian Way, which offers a range of Australian souvenirs, gifts, and travel accessories.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Adelaide Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Adelaide Airport offers complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the arrivals area for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Adelaide Airport features dedicated children's play areas located in both the domestic and international terminals.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is located in the terminal, along with first aid stations throughout the airport. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
- Airport Lounges: Adelaide Airport features several lounges including the Qantas Club and Virgin Australia Lounge, offering amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating areas to relax before your flight. These lounges are accessible to eligible passengers through memberships or for a fee.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. Luckily, there are several ways to do so at the airport.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight number on the display to get the latest information.
Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines have apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can also opt to receive updates via text, email, or push notifications.
Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Adelaide Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
By utilizing these resources, you can stay informed and ensure a smooth travel experience at Adelaide Airport.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Adelaide Airport (ADL) is located in Adelaide, South Australia.
- Terminals: The airport has one main terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights.
- Facilities: The terminal offers a range of amenities including shops, restaurants, and lounges.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar. For a complete list, visit the ADL Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Adelaide Airport handles approximately 25,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees an average of 180 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations are Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Darwin.
- Hub Status: Adelaide Airport serves as a hub for Alliance Airlines, Cobham Aviation Services, and QantasLink.
Airport History
ADL, located in South Australia, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1921 - The airport was established as an aerodrome for the Royal Australian Air Force.
- 1927 - The first commercial flight from ADL Airport took off, operated by West Australian Airways.
- 1955 - The airport was officially opened as a civilian airport, with a new terminal building and runway.
- 1982 - A major expansion project was completed, including a new international terminal and runway extension.
- 2005 - The airport was privatized and sold to the airport Limited.
- 2011 - A new multi-level car park was opened, providing additional parking spaces for travelers.
- 2018 - The airport completed a $165 million terminal expansion project, adding more retail and dining options for passengers.
Today, Adelaide Airport is a major hub for domestic and international travel, serving over 8 million passengers annually.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Adelaide Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: ADL
- Airport Website
- Phone: +61 8 8308 9211
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Adelaide Airport, 1 James Schofield Drive, Adelaide Airport SA 5950, Australia
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Adelaide Airport Q&A
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