New airport atrium welcomes and farewells

A new arrival and departure lounge atrium is the centrepiece of the second stage of the $35 million Karratha Airport Terminal Redevelopment, which opened last Friday.

This newly constructed area of the terminal and will add three departure gates and the capacity for international flights to the airport.

Dual lane security screening will reduce queuing and congestion during peak times, while the more spacious and contemporary departure area will provide a much higher level of amenity for waiting passengers.

City of Karratha Mayor Peter Long said the opening of the second stage of the terminal was a milestone for the project.

"This is the most significant stage of the terminal upgrade and includes the two-storey atrium which is a bright, spacious and modern addition to our airport," he said.

"It's a big change for passengers, with security screening moved and boarding occurring from three newly constructed departure gates, which will also be used for international passengers.

"The old departure area will continue to be used but will undergo a refurbishment.

"In the meantime, the temporary cafe will continue operating but will now be located in the departures area."

Passengers will find the new security screening area further towards the car rental desks.

Construction works are ongoing at the airport so passengers are advised to allocate additional time while works are in progress.

The redevelopment is now 70 per cent complete and remains within budget and on track to be fully opened to the public in September.