Broome International Airport (BME) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Broome International Airport Quick Facts

Broome International Airport serves as the primary aviation gateway to the stunning Kimberley region of North West Australia. With a single modern terminal, it caters to more than 400,000 passengers annually and operates the largest heliport in the southern hemisphere. Here is what you need to know before traveling through this essential regional hub.

Broome International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Broome International Airport features a compact, linear single-terminal design that prioritizes efficiency and ease of navigation. The terminal houses both arrivals and departures within the same building, eliminating the need for shuttle buses or lengthy walks between separate structures. This streamlined layout means you can move from check-in counters to security screening and onward to the departure gates all on one level, with clear signage guiding your path.

The terminal is situated approximately 0.74 km west of Broome's town center, making it exceptionally accessible. Walking from the short-term car park to the check-in counters takes roughly two minutes, while moving from security to the furthest departure gate requires no more than three to four minutes on foot. Moving walkways are not installed given the compact nature of the terminal, but the short distances make them unnecessary for most travelers.

Navigating Broome International Airport Terminals

Main Passenger Terminal

• Airlines checking in here: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Airnorth, Nexus Airlines, Skippers Aviation, and Jetstar Asia (seasonal) all operate from this single terminal.
• Key features: The terminal underwent modernization in recent years, featuring contemporary Kimberley-inspired design elements, efficient check-in counters, and a centralized security screening point. The Qantas Regional Lounge, newly redesigned with double the previous capacity, draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape with rich, vibrant colors reflecting the Kimberley palette.
• Dining and shopping highlights: A café serves hot meals, snacks, and beverages with seating overlooking the tarmac. A gift shop stocks local Aboriginal art, Kimberley-themed souvenirs, pearl jewelry, reading materials, and travel essentials.

Transportation to and from Broome International Airport

Broome International Airport sits just minutes from the town center, providing travelers with straightforward transport options. The airport's proximity to Broome's main commercial and accommodation areas means taxi rides are short and affordable, while rental cars offer the freedom to explore the wider Kimberley region at your own pace.

Getting to and from Broome International Airport by Car

Driving to Broome International Airport is remarkably simple. Great Northern Highway connects directly to Macpherson Street, with clear signage guiding you to the terminal entrance. Traffic congestion is virtually nonexistent compared to capital city airports, though mornings around 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM tend to be the busiest period for arrivals and departures.

Terminal parking rates are approximately $12 USD per 24-hour period in the secure short-term and long-term parking area located directly opposite the terminal building. There is no separate economy lot with shuttle service; the single parking facility serves all durations, making it easy to park and walk to check-in within two minutes. Payment is accepted via credit card, debit card, and cash at automated pay stations.

Private parking operators are limited near the airport, as the on-site facility adequately serves demand. No park-and-fly hotel packages are commonly available given Broome's small size and the airport's proximity to town. The cell phone waiting lot is informal; arriving drivers typically park briefly in the main car park or circle back if their party is delayed.

Curbside drop-off rules: A dedicated drop-off zone directly outside the terminal allows unloading for up to five minutes. Unattended vehicles will be moved along promptly. For longer waits, drivers should proceed to the paid parking area.

Getting to and from Broome International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Taxis remain the predominant on-demand transport option at Broome International Airport, with dedicated ranks positioned immediately outside the arrivals hall. The town's compact size means rideshare services such as Uber operate on a limited scale, but local taxi companies provide reliable, metered service.

• Taxi services: Broome Taxis and Chinatown Taxis are the primary local operators. Vehicles wait at the designated taxi rank outside the terminal exit.
• Fare estimates: A taxi ride to Broome town center costs approximately $10-15 USD and takes under five minutes. A trip to Cable Beach accommodation runs around $15-20 USD and takes eight to ten minutes.
• Payment methods: Cash and major credit cards are accepted in most taxis.

Getting to and from Broome International Airport by Public Transportation

Broome operates a limited town bus service that connects the airport to key locations. The Broome Explorer Bus provides a convenient link between the airport, town center, and Cable Beach, though travelers requiring maximum flexibility will find rental cars the preferred choice for exploring the Kimberley.

Key Amenities at Broome International Airport

ATMs

Two ATMs are located in the terminal, one situated near the check-in area and another in the arrivals hall. Both dispense Australian dollars and accept major international cards including Visa, Mastercard, and Cirrus networks.

Lost and Found

Lost property is managed by the airport administration office. Items found within the terminal or car park are logged and stored securely. Contact the main reception desk in the terminal or call +61 8 9193 7700 to inquire about lost belongings. Email inquiries can be directed to the address listed on the official airport website. Items are held for 30 days before disposal.

Luggage Services

Luggage trolleys are available in the arrivals hall and near the check-in counters, though there is a small rental fee of approximately $2 USD. Secure baggage storage is offered at the terminal for travelers needing short-term holding while exploring Broome between flights. Luggage wrapping services are not currently available.

Pets

Pets traveling through Broome International Airport must remain in approved airline carriers at all times. A designated pet relief area is located outside the terminal building to the left of the main entrance, providing a small grassy space for service animals and traveling pets. Check with individual airlines for specific pet carriage policies, as rules vary between carriers like Qantas and Virgin Australia.

Showers

Shower facilities are available within the Qantas Regional Lounge for eligible passengers. No public shower facilities exist in the general terminal area at this time.

Currency Exchange

Broome International Airport does not have a dedicated currency exchange counter. Travelers are advised to exchange currency at banks in Broome town center before arriving at the airport. ATMs dispensing Australian dollars are available for cash withdrawals upon arrival.

Smoking Area

Smoking inside the terminal building is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are located outside the terminal entrance, clearly marked with signage. Passengers who have cleared security must exit the terminal and pass through security again if they wish to smoke before their flight.

Terminal Building Features

The Broome International Airport terminal is designed to reflect the natural beauty of the Kimberley region, with architecture incorporating earthy tones, timber accents, and art celebrating local Indigenous culture. The single-level layout ensures easy navigation for passengers with reduced mobility, with ramps and accessible restrooms provided throughout. In early 2026, the airport achieved Level 3+ carbon neutrality accreditation, becoming the first regional airport in Western Australia to reach this environmental milestone.

WiFi

Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the network by selecting the airport's guest network and accepting the terms of use on the landing page. Charging stations with standard Australian power outlets and USB ports are positioned near departure gate seating areas.

Other Amenities

• Information desk: A staffed information counter near the arrivals area provides assistance with transport, accommodation, and local tours.
• Medical services: First aid assistance is available through airport staff. For serious medical needs, Broome Health Service is a short drive away.
• Prayer room: A quiet reflection space is not currently designated within the terminal.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and hearing loops at service counters support passengers with disabilities.

Airport Lounges at Broome International Airport

Broome International Airport offers a single premium lounge experience operated by Qantas, recently redesigned to provide a comfortable retreat for eligible travelers before departure. The lounge captures the essence of the Kimberley through its design while providing modern amenities for relaxation and refreshment.

Airline Lounges at Broome International Airport

Qantas Regional Lounge

• Location: Located within the main terminal past security, adjacent to the departure gates.
• Standout features: The newly redesigned lounge opened in mid-2025 with double the previous capacity. Rich, vibrant colors inspired by the Kimberley region and its natural landscape create a distinctive sense of place. The lounge offers a buffet with hot and cold food options, a self-serve bar with Australian wines and beers, comfortable seating areas, and shower facilities.
• How to access: Business class passengers on Qantas flights, Qantas Club members, Gold and above Frequent Flyer members, and oneworld alliance elite members traveling on applicable flights receive complimentary access. Day passes are not available for purchase.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

Broome International Airport does not currently host a dedicated credit card lounge such as American Express Centurion Lounge or Capital One Lounge. Eligible cardholders may access the Qantas Regional Lounge through associated frequent flyer programs or lounge membership benefits linked to select premium credit cards.

Priority Pass Lounges at Broome International Airport

Priority Pass does not operate a lounge or provide alternative experiences such as restaurant credits at Broome International Airport at this time. Travelers holding Priority Pass memberships should plan to use terminal café facilities instead.

Other Airports in the Region

While Broome International Airport is the primary aviation hub for the Kimberley, several other airports serve the broader region for travelers exploring northwestern Australia.

Derby Airport (DRB)

• Distance to Broome: 220 km northeast, approximately 2 hours 15 minutes by car along Highway 1
• Best for: Accessing the western end of the Gibb River Road, Windjana Gorge, Tunnel Creek, and the Buccaneer Archipelago
• Unique advantages: Closest airport to Horizontal Falls departure points; limited commercial flights make for quick boarding and minimal crowds
• Recommended for: Adventurers beginning Gibb River Road journeys or heading to remote coastal camps

Kununurra Airport (KNX)

• Distance to Broome: 1,044 km east, approximately 10 hours 30 minutes by car via Highway 1
• Best for: Eastern Kimberley attractions including Lake Argyle, Ord River, Bungle Bungle Range, and El Questro
• Unique advantages: Modern terminal, connections to Darwin and Perth, gateway to Northern Territory border region
• Recommended for: Travelers wanting to combine Kimberley exploration with Northern Territory itineraries

Fitzroy Crossing Airport (FIZ)

• Distance to Broome: 400 km east, approximately 4 hours by car along Highway 1
• Best for: Geikie Gorge National Park, Fitzroy River, and central Kimberley access
• Unique advantages: Small regional airstrip with essential flight connections, minimal passenger traffic
• Recommended for: Road trip stopovers and accessing remote gorge country

Broome International Airport Overview

Broome International Airport (BME) is the premier aviation hub for northwestern Western Australia, serving as the essential gateway to the breathtaking Kimberley region. Established to connect this remote corner of Australia with major population centers, the airport has grown from modest origins into a modern facility handling more than 400,000 passengers each year. Its official name reflects ambitions realized over the decades, with seasonal international flights complementing robust domestic services.

Situated just 0.74 km west of Broome's town center, the airport occupies a strategic position along the Indian Ocean coastline at the edge of the vast Australian outback. Broome itself sits approximately 2,240 km north of Perth, making air travel the practical choice for most visitors. The airport operates as a civilian facility with a single passenger terminal, though it also manages the largest heliport in the southern hemisphere, supporting helicopter operations vital to offshore resource industries and tourism charters. In February 2026, Broome International Airport achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first regional airport in Western Australia to attain Level 3+ carbon neutrality under the global Airport Carbon Accreditation program.

Broome International Airport Postal Code

Duty Free and Shopping at Broome International Airport

Duty-free shopping is available at Broome International Airport for passengers departing on international flights. However, since the majority of services are domestic, the shopping experience focuses more on local goods, souvenirs, and travel essentials. The terminal gift shop offers an excellent selection of authentic Kimberley products, making it easy to pick up last-minute presents before flying out.

The café provides a selection of hot meals, sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and cold beverages. Given Broome's multicultural heritage, you may find menu items reflecting Indigenous, Asian, and European culinary traditions. Shopping tip: items such as pearl jewelry and Aboriginal art purchased at the airport are of genuine quality, but you may find a wider selection and competitive pricing at pearl showrooms and galleries in Chinatown before arriving at the terminal.

Security Wait Times at Broome International Airport

Security screening at Broome International Airport is typically quick and efficient compared to major capital city hubs. The airport serves approximately 400,000 passengers annually, meaning queues rarely extend beyond manageable wait periods. The relaxed pace reflects Broome's overall laid-back atmosphere.

Peak travel occurs on Mondays, with Wednesday generally being the quietest day. The busiest hours are between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when multiple flights often depart in close succession. The dry season, from May through September, brings a noticeable increase in passenger numbers as tourists flock to the Kimberley. During this period, arriving 90 minutes before departure rather than the standard 60 minutes is prudent.

Security requirements follow Australian national standards: liquids, aerosols, and gels must be in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a clear resealable bag. Laptops and tablets must be removed from bags for separate screening. Standard identification checks apply; domestic passengers require photo ID while international passengers need passports.

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are United States programs and do not apply at Australian airports. CLEAR is not available. However, Qantas Frequent Flyer Platinum and Gold members may use priority screening lanes when available.

Broome International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

• Departures drop-off zone: Located directly outside the terminal main entrance. Drivers may stop for up to five minutes to unload passengers and luggage. Strictly no parking or leaving vehicles unattended. Security patrols monitor the area regularly.
• Arrivals pick-up zone: The same curbside area serves both arrivals and departures. Meeting arriving passengers at the baggage claim area inside the terminal is easy and encouraged rather than circling outside.
• Cell phone lot: No dedicated cell phone waiting area exists; drivers typically park in the main car park briefly or time their arrival with the flight's landing.
• Kiss and Fly zone: Not specifically designated; the short-term drop-off area fulfills this function.
• Commercial vehicle zones: Taxis queue at the clearly marked rank beside the terminal exit. Tour coaches and hotel shuttles have designated bays adjacent to the main building.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Broome International Airport

Broome International Airport connects the remote Kimberley region with major Australian cities and select international destinations. The airline mix includes national carriers, regional specialists, and seasonal international operators, ensuring comprehensive coverage for business travelers, tourists, and residents alike.

Several major airlines maintain consistent operations from this airport. Qantas provides direct flights linking Broome with Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney, while Virgin Australia connects Broome with Perth and other key cities. Airnorth flies to Darwin and smaller towns across northern Australia, functioning as a vital regional connector. Nexus Airlines serves wider regional Western Australian destinations with newer routes. Skippers Aviation operates charter flights and connects Broome with remote WA communities. Jetstar Asia runs seasonal international services to Singapore, expanding the airport's reach beyond Australian borders.

Popular domestic destinations include Perth (the most frequent route), followed by Darwin, Melbourne, Sydney, and various Kimberley towns. The Perth-Broome corridor is particularly busy, serving mining industry personnel, government workers, and holidaymakers heading to Cable Beach. International flights focus on Singapore seasonally, typically during the dry season tourist period from April to October.

For the best fares, book flights three to four months in advance, particularly for travel during the peak dry season months of June and July. Red-eye flights are uncommon; most services depart between early morning and late afternoon.

Getting to and from Broome International Airport

Car Rental at Broome International Airport

Renting a car at Broome International Airport is strongly recommended for travelers planning to explore beyond the town center. The Kimberley region spans vast distances, and a vehicle gives you the freedom to visit Cable Beach, Cape Leveque, and the Gibb River Road at your own pace.

Eight car rental companies maintain desks inside the terminal building directly across from the baggage claim area. Operators include Avis, Hertz, Budget, Europcar, Thrifty, and several local providers. Counters are staffed during flight arrival times, and after-hours returns are accommodated via key drop boxes.

SUVs and 4x4 vehicles account for approximately 46% of all rentals, reflecting the rugged terrain and unsealed roads common in the Kimberley. Popular models include the Toyota Kluger, Toyota Highlander, and Mazda CX-3, ranging from roughly $99-100 USD per day. Economy cars start around $31 USD per day during off-peak periods in November, while peak season rates can reach $155 USD or more per day. Booking well in advance for dry season travel between May and September is essential, as vehicle availability tightens considerably.

The rental desks are located within a 10-meter walk from the counter to where cars are parked, making the process exceptionally smooth. For one-way rentals, Perth is the most popular destination, representing roughly 33% of one-way bookings. Most travelers rent for an average of five to seven days, giving sufficient time to experience the region's highlights.

Broome International Airport Taxi Services

Broome Taxis and Chinatown Taxis are the primary local taxi operators serving the airport. Taxis wait at the designated rank immediately outside the terminal exit, with vehicles typically available for all incoming flights. Fares to the town center cost approximately $10-15 USD, while trips to Cable Beach resorts range from $15-20 USD. Most drivers accept cash and major credit cards, though confirming before the journey begins is wise.

Private Car Services at Broome International Airport

Pre-booked private transfers offer a premium alternative to taxis, ideal for business travelers and families with significant luggage. Several local companies provide meet-and-greet services where drivers wait in the arrivals hall with name signs. Fixed-rate pricing and advance booking eliminate uncertainty, and vehicles range from sedans to larger vans accommodating groups.

Bus Services at Broome International Airport

The Broome Explorer Bus and local town bus service connect the airport with town and Cable Beach. Buses depart roughly every 60 minutes from the stop outside the terminal, with fares around $3 USD. While affordable, the limited schedule means travelers on tight timelines or those arriving outside operating hours should consider taxis or rental cars instead.

Hotel Shuttles

Several Cable Beach resorts and town hotels offer complimentary shuttle service for guests. Popular properties such as Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa and Oaks Broome Hotel typically arrange transfers with advance booking. Confirm shuttle availability when making accommodation reservations, as not all properties provide this service.

Parking at Broome International Airport

Parking at Broome International Airport is simple and affordable compared to larger metropolitan airports. A single secure parking facility situated directly opposite the terminal serves both short-term and long-term needs. The lot operates 24 hours with lighting and regular patrols.

• Short-term parking: Ideal for pick-ups and drop-offs, with the first 20 minutes often free or at minimal cost. Walking to the terminal takes approximately two minutes.
• Long-term parking: Costs approximately $12 USD per 24-hour period. Weekly rates offer slight savings compared to daily accumulation. No shuttle is required since the car park is immediately adjacent to the terminal.
• Payment methods: Automated pay stations accept Visa, Mastercard, debit cards, and cash.
• Electric vehicle charging: EV charging stations are not currently installed at the airport car park. The nearest public charging points are located in Broome town center.
• Free parking: No free parking options exist on airport grounds. The car park is the only available parking area.

Places to Explore Near Broome International Airport

Broome International Airport places you at the doorstep of one of Australia's most extraordinary regions. From the moment you collect your keys at the rental counter, adventure beckons in every direction.

• Broome Town Center (2 minutes, 1.5 km): Chinatown's pearl showrooms, galleries, restaurants, and the historic Sun Pictures open-air cinema capture Broome's multicultural heritage.
• Cable Beach (10 minutes, 7 km): Famous for camel rides at sunset, turquoise waters, and 22 kilometers of pristine white sand. Several resorts line this iconic stretch.
• Gantheaume Point (12 minutes, 8 km): Dramatic red cliffs meet the Indian Ocean. At low tide, 130-million-year-old dinosaur footprints are visible in the rocks below.
• Roebuck Bay (5 minutes, 3 km): Known for the natural phenomenon "Staircase to the Moon," where the full moon's reflection on exposed tidal flats creates an optical illusion of steps leading skyward.
• Willie Creek Pearl Farm (35 minutes, 38 km): Tour a working pearl farm and learn about Broome's pearling history while cruising on crystal-clear tidal waters.
• Cape Leveque and Dampier Peninsula (2.5 hours, 210 km): Stunning red-earth coastlines, Aboriginal communities, and remote beaches ideal for multi-day road trips (4WD recommended).
• Windjana Gorge National Park (2.5 hours, 150 km east): Ancient reef limestone carved by the Lennard River, freshwater crocodiles basking on sandy banks, and the start of Gibb River Road adventures.
• Horizontal Falls (via Derby, then seaplane/boat): One of the Kimberley's most dramatic natural wonders where tidal currents rush through narrow coastal gorges.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Broome

Broome experiences a tropical savanna climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Understanding these patterns helps you plan the ideal Kimberley adventure.

Dry Season (April to October): This is unequivocally the best time to visit. Days are sunny and warm with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 88°F (20°C to 31°C). Humidity drops to comfortable levels, and blue skies dominate. June and July represent peak tourist season with the most pleasant conditions and largest crowds. The popular Staircase to the Moon phenomenon occurs between March and October during full moons.

Wet Season (November to March): Characterized by high humidity, temperatures climbing above 95°F (35°C), and dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. Many remote roads including sections of the Gibb River Road may close due to flooding. Accommodation rates drop significantly, and the landscape transforms into lush tropical greenery. Travel remains possible but requires flexibility and careful planning.

For Kimberley exploration beyond Broome, the April-to-September window is critical as most remote lodges and camps operate only during these months. Book flights and accommodations six months ahead for June-July travel.

Essential Travel Tips

💡 Arrival time recommendations: Arrive at Broome International Airport 60 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international departures. During the peak dry season (June-July), add an extra 30 minutes. The terminal is compact, so check-in and security move quickly.

💡 Flight status checking: Monitor the official airport website or airline apps before departing for the airport. During wet season storms, occasional delays may affect afternoon flights.

💡 Packing advice: Lightweight, breathable clothing suits Broome's tropical climate year-round. Pack sun protection essentials including high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and quality sunglasses. During dry season evenings, a light jacket provides comfort. If traveling into the outback, carry ample water containers and insect repellent.

💡 Currency recommendations: Australian dollars are the local currency. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Broome town, carry cash when venturing into remote areas where card facilities may be limited or unavailable.

💡 Language considerations: English is spoken universally. You may encounter Indigenous Australian languages in Aboriginal communities, but English suffices for all travel needs.

💡 Documentation requirements: Domestic travelers need photo identification (driver's license or passport). International visitors require a valid passport and appropriate Australian visa or Electronic Travel Authority.

💡 Driver license requirements: International visitors can drive in Western Australia using a valid overseas driver's license for up to three months. If your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit or certified English translation is required. A 4WD license is not necessary for renting 4WD vehicles, though off-road driving experience is strongly advised.

💡 Fuel station locations: The nearest fuel stations to the airport are located along Great Northern Highway in Broome, approximately 2-3 minutes' drive. Refuel rental cars before returning them to avoid surcharges.

About the City

Broome is a coastal pearling town with a rich multicultural history and a laid-back tropical atmosphere. Founded in the 1880s during the pearl diving boom, the town attracted Japanese, Chinese, Malay, and Aboriginal divers who created the distinctive cultural mosaic still evident in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. With a population of approximately 15,000 residents, Broome blends outback ruggedness with resort-town charm, making it an exceptional base for Kimberley exploration.

Local dining highlights include fresh barramundi, mud crab, and pearl meat, a rare delicacy unique to the region. The Courthouse Markets, held weekends in dry season, showcase local arts, crafts, and street food. Broome's connection to the pearling industry lives on through pearl farm tours and the Pearl Luggers museum experience in Chinatown.

Visitors use Broome as a springboard for Kimberley adventures while enjoying creature comforts including quality hotels, restaurants, and the iconic Cable Beach. The town offers an authentic Australian experience far removed from the bustle of capital cities, with red earth meeting turquoise ocean creating an unforgettable backdrop.

Start Your Journey at Broome International Airport

Broome International Airport delivers travelers to one of the world's last true wilderness frontiers. The moment you step off the plane, the Kimberley's ancient landscapes, vivid colors, and unhurried rhythm begin working their magic. To fully experience everything this remarkable region offers, securing a rental vehicle before arrival is essential. Book your car rental today and transform your Broome arrival into the start of an unforgettable outback adventure. The red dirt roads, spectacular gorges, and pristine coastline of the Kimberley await you.