Australia's aviation landscape is bracing for a period of "upward pressure" on ticket prices, as the nation's four largest airports embark on a massive $20 billion infrastructure overhaul.
The ACCC's latest Airport Monitoring Report reveals that investment in aeronautical facilities at Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney jumped by over 43% to $1.5 billion in the 2024-25 financial year.
While these upgrades—including Melbourne’s third runway and Perth's new terminal—are designed to meet the demands of 120 million annual passengers, ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey warned that consumers will likely foot the bill.
"Large capital programs are likely to place upward pressure on airport charges, which may result in higher airfares for passengers as these costs are recouped," Brakey said.