Airport service slips as profits rise

Investment in the country's major airports is vital to tackle congestion in the years ahead, according to a new report.

The Airport Monitoring Report, tabled annually by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), examines the performance of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth's airports. 

"It is apparent that continued growth in passenger numbers at most airports is placing pressure on existing aeronautical infrastructure and contributing to lower service standards. More investment is required to avoid excessive congestion, and ensure that the needs of Australia's travellers can be adequately accommodated," ACCC chairman Rod Sims said.

Aside from recommendations relating to congestion, the report's other major findings were that profitability increased while the quality of service at all airports dipped. 

Sydney airport stood out, rating lowest of Australia's airports for overall quality of service. It also imposed the highest aeronautical revenue per passenger and the highest car parking charges per passenger.

Following the calls for additional investment into the country's major airports, the Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF) took a defensive stance, pointing to improved amenities that are already being delivered to passengers.

“As the ACCC report notes, Australia’s five biggest airports spent $550 million on aeronautical assets over that period,” acting TTF chief executive Trent Zimmerman said.

“That is not a one off investment either, with plans for new runways at Brisbane and Melbourne Airports, and a terminal reconfiguration for Sydney Airport."