Mackay, Townsville Airports open as QLD flooding continues

Townsville and Mackay airports have reopened as major flooding continues to inundate North Queensland, with aviation authorities still at the mercy of ongoing severe weather conditions.   

Townsville Airport was forced to close on Sunday 2 February between 12:30pm before reopening the following morning at 5:30am, it remains open and operational.

A statement from Queensland Airports encouraged passengers to MONITOR their flight status before heading to the airport. Airport access is via Meenan Street and John Melton Black Drive.

Meanwhile, Mackay Airport reopened 2:00pm local time, but subject to ongoing weather conditions. The road to the airport is now clear.

“Airlines will make their own operational decisions regarding flight movements this afternoon,” a Mackay Airport statement said. “Customers who are due to depart or arrive at Mackay Airport are advised to contact your airline directly for further information.”

Cairns Airport has remained open.

Flooding in North Queensland began over the weekend with Townsville seeing a metre of rainfall in the space of 48 hours.

Speaking to Sky News yesterday, Herbert MP Phillip Thompson told viewers that evacuation centres were full and it’s a tough time for the people of Townsville.

“There is [sic] a lot of homes that have been inundated with flood water,” he said, “Over the next few days we will see some more… And then hopefully start our clean-up.”