Tasmania’s Launceston Airport set for upgrade

Launceston Airport’s Departures Hall is set for a multi-million-dollar transformation which will see the addition of three new venues along with the biggest terminal renovation in almost 20 years. As part of the project the Departure Hall’s footprint will be expanded to increase the leisure space for travelling passengers, three amenity blocks will undergo a complete refresh, modern traveller conveniences such as fast Wi-Fi and charging points will be added in addition to more seating for passengers wanting to take in the airport’s spectacular views. Gatty’s Bar and Kitchen, named after Tasmanian aviation pioneer Harold Gatty, Kanamaluka café, from the aboriginal word for Tamar River and Tasmania’s own Liv Eat will all touch down in the airport later this year along with an expanded Launceston Store, with each outlets design and materials drawing inspiration from Tasmania’s dramatic landscapes and waterways while showcasing the best of Tassie’s food and wine offerings. Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said the new Departures Hall experience will capture the essence of the region for departing travellers. “Launceston Airport has been Tasmania’s tourism gateway for 94 years and as we embark on an ambitious vision for the future it’s important that we celebrate and embrace the incredible history of this airport,” he said. “This will be the biggest renovation of our terminal in almost 20 years and marks a new chapter in Launceston Airport’s history. These works, blending modern infrastructure design elements that capture our unique Tasmanian identity, are another step towards a complete terminal redevelopment which began with our $14 million Check-in Hall and security screening project and will continue next year in our Arrival’s Hall. “Working closely with renowned Tasmanian architects Cumulus, everything about these works, from the names of our bars and cafés to the materials and colours on the walls, has been planned to reflect the beauty and history of Tassie,” O-Hare said. “When finished this will be a truly world class departures experience, we thank passengers for their patience and understanding while we undertake this work.” Regional Managing Director of SSP Dominic Cain said SSP are proud to partner with Launceston Airport to bring Gatty’s Bar and Kitchen, Kanamaluka, and Liv Eat to the Departures Hall, creating a world-class hospitality experience that reflects the best of Tasmania. “SSP’s commitment is to enhance the passenger experience by offering exceptional food and beverage choices that celebrate local flavours and producers. These new venues will ensure every traveller gets a true taste of Tasmania before they depart,” he said. “Our partnership with Launceston Airport is built on a shared vision—to create an airport experience that is welcoming, memorable, and reflective of the region’s unique identity. This redevelopment is a testament to that commitment. Gatty’s Bar and Kitchen, Kanamaluka, and Liv Eat have been carefully selected to not only offer outstanding hospitality but also support and showcase Tasmania’s incredible local producers, ensuring that travellers experience the region’s best from the moment they arrive at the airport. By collaborating with Launceston Airport and working closely with local suppliers, we’re creating an airport dining experience that is distinctly Tasmanian, offering travellers an authentic and unforgettable taste of the region.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Kay Rolland at [email protected]