Common User Terminal

The Common User Terminal (CUT) is a unique arrangement for a domestic airport for the scale of Brisbane Airport. The CUT accommodates both check-in and arrival facilities in the one terminal zone.

Client: Brisbane Airport Corporation
Location: Brisbane Airport, QLD

Common User Terminal (CUT) – Brisbane Airport

Overview
The Common User Terminal (CUT) at Brisbane Airport’s Domestic Terminal is a unique facility designed to accommodate both check-in and arrival functions within a single terminal zone. As passenger volumes increased, BAC engaged MODE to develop a strategic space plan that optimised capacity, improved passenger flow, and modernised processing facilities.

Design & Upgrades
MODE worked closely with BAC’s strategic planning team to introduce automated check-in solutions, integrating SITA common user kiosks with automatic bag drops to streamline processing times. Manual check-in counters were upgraded and relocated to meet DDA compliance, while the baggage reclaim hall was expanded to increase presentation length. Over-sized bag drop facilities and CASA-compliant scanning equipment were also introduced to enhance operational efficiency.

Outcome & Impact
Beyond infrastructure upgrades, the project incorporated commercial enhancements, including improved SEQ Tourism, Jetstar, and Tiger service counters, as well as new meeting rooms, distribution spaces, and storage facilities. Delivered under a lump sum contract, the reconfiguration has future-proofed the terminal, allowing for increased passenger volumes while enhancing dwell times in the retail space.