A beach holiday themed celebration was waiting for the first passengers who landed at Gold Coast Airport today, as the border reopened to all states and territories and flights started to ramp up.

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills said Queenslanders and visitors from all states and territories were warmly welcomed back from today.

“Reopening day has been eagerly anticipated by many people, especially those in the tourism and aviation industries,” he said.

“There were plenty of emotional reunions today, as friends and families reunited.”

Mr Mills said a beach holiday party was staged at the airport to celebrate the reopening of the Queensland border and the return of visitors from across the country.

“For many families, a Gold Coast summer holiday is a much-loved tradition – but they might not have been able to get back here in the past two years. So, we wanted to ensure everyone got a taste of a Gold Coast holiday as soon as they landed at the airport,” he said.

Activity included the give away of donuts and locally brewed coffee, along with Kool Kombie transfers for lucky holidaymakers.

Mr Mills said the quiet terminal would get busy from this week and passengers would need to be patient.

“We are expecting to return to pre-COVID-19 capacity levels by Friday,” he said.

“For many people, this will be the first time they have caught a flight in about two years, so it is important passengers are prepared for busy airport terminals.”