Chief executive Brad Geatches said there had been consistent international passenger growth in recent years, with 4.2 million passengers travelling through T1 last financial year, with this number forecast to increase to 5.1 million by 2019.
“The continuing demand for international air services meant we had to expand and improve the international departures experience to meet current and forecast demand,” he said.
“We recognised that significant investment was needed to bring this terminal up to an acceptable standard and we are well advanced with a diverse program that sees a total of $325 million being invested across the terminal.”
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWThe lounge has the capacity to accommodate passengers departing on two A380 aircraft at the same time, with 538 seats that allow passengers to charge their electrical appliances prior to their flight and 184 lounge chairs.
“From this new area, passengers will be able to board directly onto the aircraft without navigating stairs and Emirates passengers will be able to access their new airline lounge,” Mr Geatches said.
“This expansion will provide travellers with an enjoyable experience comparable to other gateway airports.”
The expansion also includes:
n 16 extra check-in counters;
n A second A380 compatible gate with direct boarding to the aircraft;
n An expanded outbound Immigration area with more counters and a designated area for future technology, such as outbound SmartGates; and
n A security screening area more than twice the size of the previous space with a special lane for families and people requiring assistance.