Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I purchase tickets to the airport from my local station?

A: You'll find tickets to the airport are available from every QR station. If the station is unattended, you can purchase Airtrain tickets from the ticket vending machines on the platform. You can also use the Translink go card with Airtrain. However, you cannot book a ticket from a local station online.  All online bookings must start at Brisbane Airport.

Q: Why can't I book my travel online from my local station to the airport?

A: Suburban train stations are operated by QR and not Brisbane's Airtrain. QR does not recognise booking receipts made on the Airtrain web site. You can book single and return journeys as long as they start at the Airport.

Q: Is Airtrain a part of QR (Queensland Rail)?

A: No. Airtrain is a privately owned company. QR provides the trains for our service. We work very closely with QR to provide you with a safe, reliable and cost effective service to the Brisbane Airport.

Q: How often do trains depart from the airport?

A: Trains normally depart every 30 minutes. You should be aware that the first train from the airport departs at 6:00am and the last train departs at 8:00pm. On weekdays, there are additional services into Brisbane City during peak periods. Please refer to our online Train Timetable for a full list of departure and arrival times.

Q: Where are the airport train stations located?

A: At the domestic terminal, you'll find the train station directly outside the airport. There are escalators and a lift to the platform in between the Qantas and Virgin Blue arrival areas. At the international terminal, you can take a walkway from Level 3. Please refer to our Domestic Station Map and International Station Map for more information.

Q: I'm not familiar with the rail network. Will I have to change trains to get to my destination?

A: If you are travelling to or from the Gold Coast, you do not have to change trains. You can use our Interactive Map to view the travel times and where to change trains if needed. Find any station by selecting the name from the list.
If you are travelling from a suburban station, you'll need to change trains at the following stations:

Q: Do I have to pre-book my tickets?

A: No. You'll find all of our products are available from Airtrain staff at Brisbane Airport. However, we do require 24 hours notice for AirtrainConnect services from the Gold Coast. These involve a chauffeur driven vehicle pickup that needs to be organised in advance.

Q: Does the train stop at the Direct Factory Outlet (DFO)?

A: Not directly. But we currently have an Airtrain Shopper Special that'll get you to the DFO with the added saving of a free return Airtrain ticket. You can catch the train to the International Airport and then the free bus to the DFO. Upon returning, we'll give you a ticket for your journey home free. Click here for details.

Q: Are pets allowed on the train?

A: No, for safety reasons. QR stipulates that pets cannot be taken on the train, even in travel cases. Only accredited hearing and guide dogs are allowed on trains.

Q: I am travelling from the Airport to the Gold Coast, but I want to have a stopover in Brisbane. What do I need to do?

A: When you purchase a paper ticket, the validity is for 2 hours only. Should you wish to break your journey in the City you must continue your journey within the 2 hours. Only customers travelling on the Gold Coast line can stay in the City for longer than 2 hours and will be issued a green Gold Coast ticket, which is dated. On arrival in the city, hand in the paper ticket, when you arrive at your Gold Coast station, hand in the green ticket.

Q: The AirtrainConnect and SmartPass products have a family fare. What is required to qualify for this fare?

A: The family fare applies when at least 2 adults and 2 children (aged 5-14) are travelling together.

Q: I am travelling to the Gold Coast using AirtrainConnect , and I'll have my surfboard with me. Is this a problem?

A: No. Most oversize luggage such as prams, wheelchairs, golf clubs or pushbikes can be catered for. Just ensure you inform us when you arrive at the airport so that we can provide an appropriate vehicle to accommodate the luggage. A surcharge for surfboards may apply.

Q: Are there lockers available at the airport stations?

A: No. However, you'll find lockers available at Central Station in Brisbane.