Devonport Airport (DPO) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Devonport Airport quick facts

Devonport Airport serves as the primary air gateway to Tasmania's north-west coast. With a single streamlined terminal, the airport provides a stress-free travel experience connecting the region to major Australian mainland cities. Here is what you need to know to navigate this compact facility like a local.

Devonport Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Devonport Airport features a straightforward, linear design housed within a single passenger terminal. Unlike sprawling metropolitan airports, navigating this facility is remarkably intuitive. Upon entering the terminal, the check-in counters dominate the landside area, directly adjacent to the main entrance. After clearing security, the airside departure lounge encompasses the boarding gate, the Qantas Club lounge, and the Destinations Café. There are no moving walkways or shuttle trains required here; the walking distance from the front door to the furthest gate is approximately 100 meters.

Navigating Devonport Airport Terminals

Main Terminal
All operations—arrivals and departures—are consolidated within a single building. QantasLink and Sharp Airlines both check in at the main counters before passengers proceed through central security screening. The compact nature means you won't get lost; once through security, you are steps away from the gate, bathrooms, and the lounge.

Transportation to and from Devonport Airport

Located roughly 10 kilometers east of the city center, Devonport Airport is primarily accessed by private car or taxi. The drive along Airport Road typically takes 10 to 12 minutes under normal traffic conditions, though the route sees very little congestion compared to mainland capitals.

Getting to and from Devonport Airport by Car

Driving is the most convenient option. The airport is a straight shot from the Bass Highway. If you are dropping off a passenger, you can pull up directly outside the terminal entrance. Parking is free for the first four hours, making waiting for arriving passengers very budget-friendly.

Getting to and from Devonport Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Rideshare services such as Uber operate within the Devonport area. A designated pickup area is located directly outside the terminal building. Simply request your ride once you have collected your luggage, and the driver will meet you at the curb. Taxis are also readily available during flight arrival times—no shuttle to a separate lot is required.

Estimated fares:

• To Devonport city center: Approximately $20 - $25 USD
• To Ulverstone: Approximately $35 - $45 USD
• To Burnie: Approximately $55 - $65 USD

Getting to and from Devonport Airport by Public Transportation

Public bus services connecting the airport to the city are limited. There is no direct Metro or train link. A general bus service runs along the Port Sorell route which passes near the airport entrance on Airport Road, but travelers with luggage should verify schedules closely or opt for a taxi for a direct connection.

Key Amenities at Devonport Airport

ATMs

ATM facilities are not widely advertised inside the terminal. It is highly recommended to carry a small amount of cash, though EFTPOS facilities are available at the café. The nearest banking facilities are located in the Devonport CBD.

Lost and Found

Lost items are managed by Tasports, the airport operator. If you leave something behind on a plane, you must contact the airline directly (QantasLink or Sharp Airlines). For items lost in the terminal, contact the airport administration via the main phone line.

Luggage Services

Standard luggage trolleys are available for transporting bags from the curb to the check-in counter. There are no luggage wrapping services or long-term storage lockers at this facility.

Pets

While service animals are permitted inside the terminal, general pets must remain in approved carriers. There is a grassed area outside the terminal building suitable for pet relief before or after a flight.

Showers

Public shower facilities are not available in the main terminal. The Qantas Club lounge offers restroom facilities, but travelers seeking a full shower may need to wait until reaching their accommodation.

Currency Exchange

Devonport Airport handles exclusively domestic flights and does not have a currency exchange counter. Travelers arriving from international destinations via connecting flights should exchange money at their port of entry into Australia.

Smoking Area

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal building and the immediate surroundings. The entire airport grounds have been designated a smoke-free zone.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal is a single-story building that emphasizes practicality. It is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible bathrooms and designated seating. While it lacks the extensive retail corridors of city airports, it offers a clean, quiet, and efficient environment.

WiFi

Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the passenger terminal. To connect, select the "TasPorts Free WiFi" network on your device and accept the terms of use. Charging stations are limited to a few power points along the walls in the departure lounge, so charging your devices before arriving is wise.

Airport Lounges at Devonport Airport

Despite the airport's modest size, a premium lounge experience is available for eligible passengers.

Airline Lounges at Devonport Airport

Qantas Club Lounge
The primary lounge at Devonport Airport is the Qantas Club. Located airside near the departure gate, this lounge offers sweeping views of the tarmac and runway. It features bar service in the afternoon, light refreshments and snacks, and a quiet area to focus or relax. Access is granted to Qantas Club members, Qantas Gold and Platinum frequent flyers, and Business class passengers traveling on QantasLink-operated services. No day passes are available for purchase.

Priority Pass Lounges at Devonport Airport

Devonport Airport does not house any Priority Pass-affiliated lounges, restaurants, or experiences. Travelers holding Priority Pass memberships cannot redeem credits here. The limited footprint of the airport means the Qantas Club is the sole retreat.

Other Airports in the Region

Launceston Airport (LST)
Located approximately 100 km east of Devonport (about 1 hour drive), Launceston Airport is the busier regional hub offering more frequent flights and jet services. It is best for travelers heading to Tasmania's central north or the Tamar Valley wine region.

Hobart Airport (HBA)
Tasmania's primary international and domestic gateway lies roughly 280 km south. The drive takes about 3 hours. Best for travelers visiting the state's capital or the southern wilderness areas like Bruny Island and Port Arthur.

Burnie Airport (BWT)
Situated about 60 km west on Tasmania's rugged coast, Burnie Airport is a smaller alternative often used for connections to King Island. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes.

Devonport Airport Overview

Devonport Airport is a vital piece of infrastructure for North West Tasmania, operated by the government-owned entity Tasports. Lying 10 kilometers from the Devonport city center, it connects the agricultural and manufacturing heartland to the rest of Australia. The airport features one asphalt runway (06/24) measuring 1,838 meters and a smaller grass strip (14/32). It is exclusively a civilian airport with no military co-habitation, handling approximately 200,000 passengers annually.

Devonport Airport Postal Code

Postal Code: 7310
City: Devonport
State: Tasmania
Country: Australia
Full Address: Airport Road, Devonport TAS 7310

Duty Free and Shopping at Devonport Airport

Duty-free shopping is not available at Devonport Airport, as it only services domestic flights. However, the Destinations Café functions as a hybrid retail space selling newspapers, magazines, last-minute souvenirs, and local Tasmanian products. You can pick up locally made fudge, Tasmania honey, or a stuffed Tasmanian devil toy here. For luxury or tax-free goods, travelers must shop at their international transit point.

Security Wait Times Devonport Airport

Security processing at Devonport Airport is generally swift. The compact terminal processes only regional aircraft, meaning queues are rare and move quickly. The busiest periods coincide strictly with flight departure times, typically 45 to 60 minutes before takeoff. Peak travel occurs on Fridays and Sundays, particularly during the summer holiday months (December to February) when tourists flock to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry and the coast.

💡 Tip: Arriving 60 minutes before your flight is almost always sufficient. The security checkpoint closes 30 minutes prior to departure, and there is no need to arrive hours early for parking or transit.

Devonport Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

Departures Drop-Off: The drop-off zone is located directly outside the terminal entry doors. There is no time limit, but the area is restricted to active loading and unloading.

Arrivals Pick-Up: The same curbside area is used for arrivals. As cars are not allowed to idle unattended, the cell phone waiting lot—located approximately 50 meters from the terminal—allows drivers to wait for free until passengers are ready at the curb.

Commercial Vehicles: Taxis and rideshares utilize the same designated pickup zone just outside the arrivals hall.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Devonport Airport

Two airlines serve Devonport Airport. QantasLink is the dominant carrier, operating Dash 8 turboprop aircraft. Sharp Airlines provides a vital link for business and freight.

• QantasLink: The primary route is Devonport (DPO) to Melbourne (MEL), with up to four daily flights. QantasLink also operates seasonal or limited services to other capital cities depending on demand.
• Sharp Airlines: Operates regional flights connecting Devonport to King Island and occasionally Burnie, catering largely to mining and agricultural business traffic.

While the airport does not serve as a formal hub, it acts as a critical focus city for the Bass Strait crossing. Melbourne is the most popular destination, serving as the gateway to international connections.

Getting to and from Devonport Airport

With limited public transit, private transport is king here. Renting a car is the most effective way to explore the rugged north-west coast immediately after landing.

Car Rental at Devonport Airport

Eight car rental brands operate desks directly inside the terminal or adjacent to it. Options range from compact cars suited for city driving to SUVs perfect for exploring Cradle Mountain National Park.

👉 Book your rental car in advance. Inventory at this regional airport is strictly limited compared to major cities. During the summer holidays, vehicles sell out weeks ahead. A 4x4 or SUV is strongly recommended if your itinerary includes Cradle Mountain or the Tarkine wilderness.

Devonport Airport Taxi Services

Devonport Taxis provide the primary taxi service. The rank is directly outside the terminal. Fares to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry terminal or the city center generally cost around $20 USD. Both card and cash payments are accepted.

Private Car Services

Several local operators provide pre-booked private cars, though they are not generally stationed at the airport without a booking. This is a premium option best suited for business travelers requiring a seamless transfer to Burnie or Launceston. Inquire with your hotel for recommended local chauffeur services.

Bus Services

The MerseyLink public bus service runs past the airport, but the stop is on the main road, a short walk from the terminal. This is rarely used by travelers with checked baggage due to the infrequent timetable.

Hotel Shuttles

Most Devonport hotels do not operate dedicated airport shuttles due to the short 10-minute driving distance from the city. The majority of visitors rely on taxis or their rental cars to reach the CBD.

Parking at Devonport Airport

Devonport Airport offers one central parking lot directly opposite the terminal. The covered and open-air spaces are all within a 2-minute walk of check-in.

The parking system is entirely cashless. Payment is made by card upon exiting the lot. Electric vehicle charging points are not currently a prominent feature, reflecting the regional fleet's gradual transition.

Places to Explore Near Devonport Airport

• Devonport City Center (10 km / 10 minutes): Stroll along the Mersey Bluff and visit the Bass Strait Maritime Centre.
• Hawley Beach (11 km / 12 minutes): A serene coastal village famous for its red rocks and safe swimming beaches.
• Sheffield (29 km / 25 minutes): The "Town of Murals," featuring over 60 large artworks painted on buildings.
• Cradle Mountain (86 km / 1 hour 15 minutes): The iconic gateway to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
• Launceston (101 km / 1 hour): Tasmania's northern capital, known for the Cataract Gorge and excellent food scene.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Devonport

Devonport enjoys a temperate maritime climate. Summers (December to February) are mild, with averages ranging from 54°F (12°C) to 70°F (21°C). Winters (June to August) are cool and wet, averaging between 43°F (6°C) and 55°F (13°C). The region rarely sees snow on the coast, but snow frequently caps the peaks of Cradle Mountain in winter.

Best time to visit: Late summer (February to March) offers warm, stable weather and fewer crowds. Spring (October to November) is beautiful for gardens and falls. Always pack a rain jacket regardless of the season.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival Time: Arrive 60 minutes before departure for domestic flights. The terminal processes limited passengers very rapidly.
• Check Flight Status: Flights to Melbourne can be affected by heavy fog in winter mornings. Check the Qantas app for real-time updates.
• Packing Advice: Layered clothing is essential. A windproof jacket is necessary even in summer because of the Bass Strait winds.
• Currency: Australian Dollars (AUD). Card payments are universal, but having some cash is useful for rural farm gate stalls.
• Driver License: International visitors can drive with a valid overseas license. An English translation or International Driving Permit is required if the license is not in English.
• Fuel Stations: The closest petrol station to the airport is a BP on Formby Road, approximately 5 km toward the city center.

About the City

Devonport is the third-largest city in Tasmania and the gateway to the island for most travelers arriving by the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Geelong. Located where the Mersey River meets the Bass Strait, it has a population of roughly 30,000. The city is the agricultural and maritime hub of the north-west. While often bypassed quickly by tourists heading straight for Cradle Mountain, Devonport rewards those who linger with the stunning coastal walk along the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse and a burgeoning boutique food scene, including excellent local cheeses and fresh seafood. It’s an ideal, quiet base for exploring the northern coast.

Start Your Journey at Devonport Airport

Devonport Airport opens a region best explored on four wheels. Without major public transport connections, a car is your ticket to hidden waterfalls, vineyard cellar doors, and wild coastlines. Don't leave your Tasmanian adventure to chance—secure your vehicle before you land to ensure a smooth, instant departure from the tarmac to the wilderness.