Adelaide's airport is only 15 minutes from the city.
THE AIRPORT
Adelaide Airport, ADL
THE FLIGHT
QF 1948 to Newcastle, economy class
THE ARRIVAL
Thankfully Adelaide Airport is a mere 15 minutes' drive from the CBD and the foyer of Sofitel Adelaide where I've accidently left my bag. Having not flown for months my match fitness is obviously not up to scratch. Following a swift return trip (7.9km one way) we make it with minutes to spare. I even manage to fill up my rental car and return it before legging it, hastily, to the terminal. You can also reach the airport by taxi, ride share, shuttle bus, private transfer or bike (free bike racks available). Alternatively stay at the stylish Atura Adelaide Airport and stroll to the terminal.
THE LOOK
Unveiling a $200 million expansion of the domestic and international terminal at the end of 2021, Australia's fifth largest airport functions like clockwork at the start of a long weekend. The new look terminal, now with an 80 per cent larger retail offering and new international arrivals hall, still has that new concourse smell and feel. The upgrade took almost three years, close to a million-man hours and includes an expansion of the northern concourse (the Virgin-Rex Airlines end) along with a major makeover of the central concourse, including the entry point to the relocated and significantly larger Virgin Australia Lounge.
Entry to the new international departures hall, featuring a second baggage belt for arrivals, more space for immigration processing, expanded screening facilities and a larger duty-free precinct on the mezzanine level, has also shifted. Qantas meanwhile has announced plans to open a new business lounge and upgrade its Chairmans Lounge.
CHECK-IN
Having to return for my bag means we need to high tail it to the gate. Fortunately we don't have any bags to check-in (I've learned something in all these years of flying) and I've downloaded our boarding passes saving us significant time. At this early hour there are barely any queues and the whole process is stress free.
SECURITY
Clearing security is straightforward which is surprising given it's a public holiday. I later hear reports there are long queues at peak travel times with up to a 20-minute wait to clear security due to staff shortages.
FOOD AND DRINK
The expanded retail and dining offering includes outlets like Southern Providore, Coopers Alehouse and Penfolds Wine Bar and Kitchen which focus on sourcing local products. I glance at them pensively as we race to the gate. Highlighting "ingredients less travelled" (specifically those grown or produced within 100 miles of the airport) the outlet known as 100 miles opened in July. Its sustainably led menu sources ingredients from producers including Beerenberg, Bickfords and Fleurieu Milk Company while Adelaide Central Market suppliers Lucia's Fine Foods, Mushroom Man and the Mettwurst Shop also star. Similarly, the drinks menu is extensive, featuring beers from Pirate Life Brewing, spirits from Kangaroo Island Distillery and wines from all regions. It joins local brands Penfolds, Soho Coffee Roasters and South Australian-focused outlets like Southern Providore (a one stop shop for SA produce) and The Pantry, with its menu by former Masterchef contestant Callum Hann, inside the newly expanded concourse.
RETAIL THERAPY
All a traveller needs can be found here: Seed, Rip Curl, Witchery, JB-Hi Fi; Lego Kaboom; Amuse Beauty Studio (pre-flight makeover anyone?) and WH Smith. There's also a pharmacy and Boost Juice outlet.
PASSING TIME
There's plenty of space and seating along with free Wi-Fi and power points if you need to charge devices. Enjoy a wine tasting and antipasto plate at Penfolds (local musicians play on Fridays afternoons) or grab an ice-cold beer at the new look Coopers Alehouse with its vistas to the Adelaide Hills. Before passing through security, check out the historic Vickers Vimy aircraft which won the Great Air Race between England and Australia in 1919 flown by South Australian brothers Sir Ross and Keith Smith. A new exhibition space will open by the end of the year.
THE VERDICT
With its well thought out layout and good passenger flow, you can see why Adelaide Airport was named Best Regional Airport in Australia and the Pacific in 2022 by Skytrax. The number of outlets offering locally sourced products is impressive. Next time I'm arriving early for a Spencer Gulf prawn sandwich from 100 Miles and a G&T made with 78 Degrees gin and Bickford's and Sons Indian tonic water from Southern Providore. See adelaideairport.com.au
OUR RATING OUT OF FIVE
★★★★
Sheriden Rhodes was a guest of the South Australian Tourism Commission and Newcastle Airport.
Qantas recently launched direct Newcastle-Adelaide flights on a new year-round service. See qantas.com; southaustralia.com
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