Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said 255 people boarded the flights, though little detail has been given as to the aircraft or airlines involved.
Lorie Argus said the airport’s infrastructure improvements would allow more capacity and consumer choice and highlighted a need for more international airlines, possibly obliquely referring to the current Qatar Airways stoush.
Tony Brun argued poor air traffic control and firefighter hours are hampering his airport’s ability to attract passenger and service flights.
The decision means three international carriers can depart over Moreton Bay at night more frequently, rather than having to fly over more populated areas.
The Main Runway and Taxiways Overlay Project (MRTOP), expected to be completed by August 2024, is part of the airport’s ongoing maintenance program and will mostly be carried out during the airport’s 11pm–6am curfew to avoid disrupting scheduled services.
Dubbed Dunreath Village, the centre – which also features a Sushi Hub and a Priceline chemist – is within walking distance of Redcliffe Station in the Airport West precinct and will trade from 7am to 9pm on weekdays and 7am to 7pm on weekends and public holidays.