About Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport (BNK) is the regional airport for Ballina and Byron Bay on the North Coast of New South Wales, Australia. It is owned and run by Ballina Shire Council. Formerly known simply as Ballina Airport, it was renamed to reflect its role as the arrival point for visitors to the Byron region.

Ballina Airport Location and Distance to Byron Bay

The airport is about 5 km from Ballina's town centre, only a few minutes' drive. Byron Bay lies roughly 30 km to the north, a drive of around half an hour, which makes the airport a popular choice for reaching the beaches and hinterland of the Northern Rivers.

Terminal and Facilities at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

One terminal building serves every flight. It is compact and easy to navigate, with check-in counters, a café, baggage claim and car rental desks. Parking is available next to the building.

Airlines and Routes from Ballina

Scheduled domestic flights connect Ballina with Sydney and Melbourne. Airlines at the airport include Jetstar, Qantas (through QantasLink) and Virgin Australia. Melbourne services give southern travellers a direct option. Check the latest schedule, as frequencies change through the year.

Getting from Ballina Airport to Byron Bay and Beyond

• Shuttle bus: door-to-door and scheduled shuttles run between the airport, Byron Bay and nearby towns.
• Taxi and rideshare: available outside the terminal.
• Rental car: a good choice for exploring the hinterland towns such as Bangalow and Mullumbimby.
• Public bus: an occasional local service stops at the airport.

Things to Do Near Ballina and Byron Bay

In Byron Bay, the walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse and the town's surf beaches are the main draws. Ballina itself has river walks and quiet beaches such as Lighthouse Beach and Shelly Beach. Inland, the green hills of the Northern Rivers hold weekend markets and small villages.

Travel Tips for Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

School holidays and summer weekends fill flights and shuttles quickly, so book transfers in advance. Allow time for the drive if you are staying in Byron Bay. Book your flight to Ballina on Traveloka.