Airports and Airfields

While an airport may cater to domestic and international air traffic and allow for commercial aircraft, an airfield usually caters to non-commercial and private aircraft.

The top 5 busiest airports in Australia, in descending order are: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. However there are many private landing strips and airfields located in and around the Australian outback that service holders of private pilot's licenses as well as cargo planes and those used to transport medical personnel and supplies.

Procedure for Using a Private Airport or Airfield:

• Most private airports require the pilot to file a flight plan 24 hours prior to the flight
• Private airports may or may not have tower controllers. Pilots may need to get clearance from a tower for landing and take off, or the airport may be so small that pilots need to self-announce their co-ordinates and directions on pre-determined frequencies and at set heights
• Most outback airports have asphalt runways and fuel points
• Private airports also usually charge a landing fee, but not a parking fee

Facilities to Look for in Public Airports:

Public airports, used for commercial air traffic, offer many services that aid in a smoother, convenient flight:

• Park and fly services, whereby you can leave your car in the parking lot upon departure and readily drive it again as soon as you land
• Car rentals services and taxi stands
• Airport shuttle services to relay passengers to and from tourist destinations and hotels
• Airport terminals containing shopping outlets and duty-free shopping areas
• Dining facilities, often with a view of landings and take offs
• Internet kiosks, usually free
• Banking and ATM services
• Phone booths and cell phone charging facilities
• Airport hangars
• In-airport hotels or motels for layovers