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Darwin International Airport DRW Airport Traveler Guide

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DRW Airport Insights & Guide

Key DRW Airport Topics:

Getting to Know DRW Airport

Welcome to Darwin International Airport, your entry to Australia's Northern Territory and its unique outdoor art gallery, showcasing local culture. Our concise guide ensures a seamless journey through DRW, from efficient check-ins to breathtaking views.

Need a quick yet detailed DRW overview? Our guide has it all - from flight updates, terminal info, to dining and shopping. Dive deeper with iFly's Comprehensive Airport Guide.

iFly Tip: Simplify your check-in process by using online or mobile check-in.

DRW has one main terminal with two levels, and it serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal is divided into two sections: the northern end is used for domestic flights, while the southern end is used for international flights. The airport has a total of 16 gates, with 10 gates for domestic flights and 6 gates for international flights.

Major airlines that operate at DRW include Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Airnorth. Qantas and Jetstar operate from the northern end of the terminal, while Virgin Australia and Airnorth operate from the southern end. International airlines such as SilkAir, AirAsia, and Philippine Airlines also operate from the southern end of the terminal.

Passengers can easily navigate the airport terminals by following the signs and directions provided throughout the terminal. The airport also offers various services and amenities, including restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, ATMs, currency exchange, and free Wi-Fi.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

DRW Airport has one main terminal building that houses both domestic and international flights. The terminal is easy to navigate, with all gates located within a short walking distance. There are no shuttle buses or trains needed to get between terminals, as there is only one terminal building.

Passengers arriving at the airport can expect a quick and hassle-free experience, as the terminal is well-equipped with all necessary facilities such as baggage claim, customs, and immigration. The airport also offers a range of dining and shopping options for passengers to enjoy while waiting for their flights.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Darwin International Airport (DRW) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from DRW-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

"Darwin International Airport is pretty straightforward with its single terminal. However, it can get busy during peak hours. Make sure to check the information screens frequently, as gate assignments can change last minute." — John M., Palmerston, NT, July 2023

"If you're flying internationally, head to the left side of the terminal after security. Domestic flights are on the right. This small tip can save you a lot of walking." — Priya K., Howard Springs, NT, August 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The airport shuttle is a convenient option if you’re heading to the city center. It runs every 30 minutes and is much cheaper than a taxi. You can book tickets online to save time." — Michael T., Casuarina, NT, September 2023

"For those renting a car, the rental desks are right next to the baggage claim area. It’s very efficient and you’ll be on the road in no time." — Linda S., Nightcliff, NT, October 2023

Parking

"The Long Term Car Park is just a short walk from the terminal. If you’re planning to park for more than a couple of days, book your spot online in advance to get a better rate." — Alex W., Leanyer, NT, November 2023

"For quick pickups, the Short Stay Car Park is ideal. It’s free for the first 15 minutes, which is perfect if you’re just dropping someone off or picking them up." — Sarah B., Karama, NT, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"Don’t miss out on the local eateries in the terminal. The Barra Bar serves some of the best fish and chips you’ll find in Darwin. It’s a great way to get a taste of the local cuisine before you fly." — Emily R., Parap, NT, January 2024

"If you need to do some last-minute shopping, there are several stores offering local products and souvenirs. You can find everything from Aboriginal art to tropical clothing." — David L., Fannie Bay, NT, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Security lines can get long, especially during the early morning rush. Arrive at least two hours before your flight to avoid any stress." — Jessica P., Coconut Grove, NT, March 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information displays. Delays are not uncommon, and the displays are updated frequently with the latest information." — Tom H., Rapid Creek, NT, April 2024

iFly Tip: Ensure a hassle-free travel experience by following our guide on baggage cutoff times.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At DRW, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas outside the terminal buildings. However, there are restrictions on the time limit for parking in these areas, so it is important to plan accordingly. Vehicles are not allowed to park or wait at the curbside for more than two minutes, and drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times.

If you need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport provides cell-phone waiting areas where you can park your vehicle for free and wait until your passenger has arrived and collected their luggage. These waiting areas are located near the terminal buildings and can be accessed by following the signs from the main airport entrance. It is important to note that vehicles are not allowed to be left unattended in these waiting areas, and drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times.

Parking Facilities & Options

When it comes to parking at DRW Airport, travelers have several options to choose from. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with multiple lots and garages available for your convenience.

If you're picking up or dropping off passengers, there are designated cell phone waiting areas where you can wait for your party to arrive without having to pay for parking. These areas are conveniently located near the terminal, making it easy to meet up with your loved ones.

For those with disabilities, there are designated handicapped parking spots available in all parking areas. These spots are located close to the terminal for easy access.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking may be a good choice for you. There are several off-airport parking lots located near the airport that offer shuttle service to and from the terminal. These lots can be a cost-effective alternative to parking at the airport itself.

Transportation Options

The airport provides a variety of ground transportation options to suit every traveler's needs:

  • Car Rentals: Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty offering their services. The car rental desks are located in the arrivals area of the terminal building. It is advisable to book your car rental in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with designated drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. The fares are metered and vary depending on the destination. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey. The average fare to Darwin city center is approximately AUD 25-30, and the travel time is around 15 minutes.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services such as Uber and Ola are available for pickup at the designated ride-share pickup area located outside the terminal building. However, it is important to note that ride-sharing services are only allowed to drop off passengers at the airport and not pick them up. Ensure to check for any restrictions regarding luggage and passenger capacity.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for passengers who prefer a more cost-effective mode of transportation. The shuttle service operates 24 hours a day, with pickup areas located outside the terminal building. Fares vary depending on the destination and can be purchased at the shuttle desk located in the arrivals area of the terminal building. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
  • Public Transportation: The airport is serviced by the public bus system. The bus stop is located outside the terminal building, and fares can be purchased on board. However, it is important to note that the bus service operates on a limited schedule, so it is recommended to check the timetable beforehand. Bus route 3 connects the airport to Darwin city center, with an approximate travel time of 25-30 minutes and a fare of around AUD 3.

iFly Tip: Curious about how pilots manage flights? Explore our cockpit operation guide for a deep dive into flight procedures.

Airport Hotels

Are you looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? We have a selection of the best hotels that range from luxury resorts to cozy motels, all located within close proximity to the airport. These accommodations offer a variety of amenities including complimentary airport transfers, free WiFi, on-site dining, and more. Some of these hotels are situated in serene neighborhoods, providing a tranquil retreat for travelers. Others are located in the heart of the city, offering easy access to local attractions. Whether you're looking for a hotel with a poolside dining experience, a resort with ample parking facilities, or a motel with gaming facilities for entertainment, you'll find a suitable option in this list. Check out our Darwin Airport Hotels for more information.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for dining and shopping options at the airport, you won't be disappointed. The airport offers a variety of restaurants and stores to choose from, no matter what you're in the mood for.

One recommended restaurant is The Green Room, located in the departures area. This restaurant offers a range of delicious meals made with fresh, local ingredients. Another great option is the Hungry Jack's fast food chain, which can be found in both the arrivals and departures areas. For those looking for a quick snack, there are several cafes and bakeries located throughout the airport, including Hudsons Coffee and Bumbu Desa.

When it comes to shopping, Darwin International Airport has plenty of options. For souvenirs and gifts, head to Australian Way or The Crocodile Shop. For duty-free shopping, there are several stores to choose from, including JR/Duty Free and Australian Duty Free. Other stores at the airport include News Travels, Tech2Go, and Sunglass Hut.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Darwin Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Darwin International Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected with their loved ones or work while waiting for their flight.
  • Lost and Found: If you have lost an item at the airport, you can contact the Lost Property Office located in the terminal building. The office is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays.
  • Children's Play Area: The airport has a dedicated children's play area located in the departure lounge, equipped with toys and games to keep the little ones entertained.
  • Special-Needs Services: Darwin Airport is committed to providing assistance to passengers with special needs. Wheelchairs, mobility aids, and other assistance can be arranged by contacting your airline in advance.
  • ATM: There are several ATMs available at the airport, making it easy for passengers to access cash.
  • Medical Help: In case of a medical emergency, the airport has a first aid room located in the terminal building. Trained medical staff are available to provide assistance if needed.

Flight Status Info

As a traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At DRW, there are several ways to check your flight status.

One option is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS), which provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. These displays are located throughout the airport, making it easy to find the information you need.

Another option is to download your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to check your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications through these apps to stay updated on any changes to your flight.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at DRW Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Darwin International Airport (DRW) is located in the Northern Territory, Australia.
  • Terminals: The airport has one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar Airways. For a complete list of airlines, visit the DRW Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Darwin International Airport handles approximately 4,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 60 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from DRW are Bali, Brisbane, Cairns, Melbourne, and Sydney.
  • Hub Status: Darwin International Airport serves as a hub for Airnorth and Alliance Airlines.

Airport History

The airport, located in Darwin, Australia, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some of the significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1919 - The first aircraft landed in Darwin, marking the beginning of aviation in the region.
  • 1920 - The first commercial flight from Darwin to Katherine was operated by Australian Aerial Services.
  • 1934 - The first airport in Darwin was established at Parap, with a single runway and basic facilities.
  • 1942 - During World War II, Darwin Airport was heavily bombed by the Japanese, causing significant damage to the runway and facilities.
  • 1946 - The airport was reopened for civilian use after extensive repairs and upgrades.
  • 1966 - Darwin Airport was officially declared an international airport, with the construction of a new terminal and runway.
  • 1986 - A major expansion project was undertaken, which included the construction of a new international terminal and a second runway.
  • 2008 - The airport was renamed Darwin International Airport, to reflect its growing importance as a regional hub.
  • 2019 - Darwin Airport celebrated its 100th anniversary, marking a century of aviation in the Northern Territory.

Today, DRW is a modern and efficient facility, serving over 2 million passengers each year and connecting Darwin to destinations across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Darwin International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: DRW
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +61 8 8920 1811
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Darwin International Airport, GPO Box 735, Darwin NT 0801, Australia

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Darwin International Airport Q&A

The airport has one main terminal with two levels, serving both domestic and international flights.
Major airlines include Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Airnorth. International airlines such as SilkAir, AirAsia, and Philippine Airlines also operate here.
No, there are no shuttle buses or trains needed as there is only one terminal building.
The airport offers short-term and long-term parking options, including designated cell phone waiting areas and handicapped parking spots.
Yes, car rental facilities are available with providers such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty.
Yes, services like Uber and Ola are available for drop-offs but not for pickups.
The airport offers a variety of dining options including The Green Room, Hungry Jack's, Hudsons Coffee, and Bumbu Desa.
Yes, the airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
You can contact the Lost Property Office located in the terminal building, open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays.
You can check your flight status using in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport