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
Source: AirportMaps.com
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
Estimated Processing Times
Morning and evening peaks tend to have the longest wait times, especially for international departures.
Transfer between Terminals
Perth Airport is divided into two separate terminal precincts: T1/T2 (Eastern precinct) and T3/T4 (Western precinct). These areas are not connected by foot, so passengers transferring between them must use the airport’s free shuttle bus service or travel by car. Understanding how transfers work is essential to avoid delays, especially for connecting flights.
Always check your terminal before arriving at the airport—transfers between precincts can take up to 30 minutes in total.
Terminal Layout
- T1 & T2: International flights and some domestic operations
- T3 & T4: Mainly Qantas domestic flights
T1 and T2 are within walking distance of each other, as are T3 and T4. However, there is no pedestrian connection between these two groups.
Free Shuttle Bus
The airport operates a free shuttle bus service connecting all terminals. This is the main way to transfer between T1/T2 and T3/T4.
- Operating 24/7
- Frequency: every 15–20 minutes
- Travel time: approximately 10–15 minutes
- Stops located outside each terminal
During peak hours, allow extra time as buses may be crowded.
Taxi & Ride-share Transfers
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, Ola, DiDi) are available for faster transfers between terminals.
- Travel time: 10–15 minutes
- Cost: approximately $15–$25
- Available 24/7
This is the fastest option if you have a tight connection or heavy luggage.
Walking Between Terminals
- T1 ↔ T2: 2–5 minutes walking distance
- T3 ↔ T4: 2–5 minutes walking distance
- T1/T2 ↔ T3/T4: Not possible on foot
Follow airport signage carefully—terminals are clearly marked but distances between precincts are significant.