Airport Tips & Quick Reference Guide to Perth Airport (PER)

Perth Airport Terminals

Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.

Perth Airport is divided into four passenger terminals (T1, T2, T3 and T4), grouped into two main precincts. T1 and T2 form the modern eastern precinct, while T3 and T4 are located in the western precinct. Each terminal serves different airlines and flight types, so checking your departure terminal in advance is essential for a smooth journey.

History & Development

Perth Airport began operations in 1944 as a military airfield before evolving into Western Australia’s main international gateway. Over the decades, the airport expanded significantly to accommodate growing passenger demand. The newer T1/T2 precinct reflects modern airport design, while T3/T4 represent earlier infrastructure adapted for today’s operations. Long-term plans aim to consolidate all terminals into a single integrated hub in the future.

Terminals are split into two separate areas (T1/T2 and T3/T4), about 10–15 minutes apart by road.

Terminal Overview

Terminal 1 (T1)

Type: International + some domestic

T1 is the airport’s main international terminal, featuring modern facilities, wide departure halls and advanced security systems. It includes check-in areas, immigration, duty free, lounges and boarding gates.

Levels: Departures (upper), Arrivals (ground)

Airlines: Qantas (international), Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Jetstar (some routes)

Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights due to strict security and biosecurity controls in Australia.

Terminal 2 (T2)

Type: Domestic

Located next to T1, T2 mainly handles low-cost and regional domestic flights. It is smaller but efficient, with quick processing times.

Airlines: Virgin Australia (regional), Alliance Airlines

Terminal 3 (T3)

Type: Domestic

T3 is part of the Qantas precinct and handles domestic flights. It offers check-in desks, lounges and basic services.

Airlines: Qantas (domestic)

Terminal 4 (T4)

Type: Domestic

T4 complements T3 and is mainly used by QantasLink. It is modern and efficient, designed for quick boarding and regional connections.

Airlines: QantasLink

 Qantas operates exclusively from T3/T4, which are not connected by foot to T1/T2.

Connections Between Terminals

Free shuttle buses connect all terminals every 15–20 minutes. Travel time between precincts is approximately 10–15 minutes.

  • T1 ↔ T2: Walking distance
  • T3 ↔ T4: Walking distance
  • T1/T2 ↔ T3/T4: Shuttle bus required

 Allow at least 30 minutes for terminal transfers, especially during peak times.

Facilities & Services

  • Free Wi-Fi throughout all terminals
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Lost property offices
  • Charging stations
  • Lounges (Qantas, airline lounges, pay-per-use)
  • Food, retail and duty free (mainly in T1)

Family & Accessibility Services

  • Accessible toilets and lifts in all terminals
  • Assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM)
  • Family facilities and baby changing rooms
  • Priority boarding available with airlines

Request special assistance at least 48 hours before your flight for a smoother experience.

Security & Baggage Control

Security screening is mandatory for all departures. International passengers at T1 must also pass through passport control and strict biosecurity checks. Liquids restrictions apply for carry-on baggage.

Check-in & Boarding

  • Domestic: Check-in opens 1–2 hours before departure
  • International: Check-in opens 3 hours before departure
  • Online check-in is widely available

 Boarding gates may close 20 minutes before departure on domestic flights.

Lost & Found

Lost items in terminals are handled by the airport’s Lost Property office. Items left on aircraft should be reported directly to the airline.

Popular Routes from Perth

Destination Flight Duration Airlines Type
Sydney ~4h 15m Qantas, Virgin Australia Domestic
Melbourne ~4h Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar Domestic
Dubai ~11h Emirates International
Singapore ~5h 20m Singapore Airlines, Scoot International
London ~17h (direct) Qantas International


Estimated Processing Times

Process Estimated Time
Domestic security 5–15 min
International security 15–30 min
Immigration 15–25 min
Baggage claim 10–20 min

Morning and evening peaks tend to have the longest wait times, especially for international departures.

Location Map

Walking Tour