Key Highlights
Thinking about going through Perth Airport? Here’s what you need to know to help your trip go well.
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Perth Airport is the main way in and out of western australia. You’ll find both international flights and domestic flights there.
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There are four main terminals at Perth. T1/T2 sit together and T3/T4 are in another spot.
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A terminal transfer bus lets you get between terminals for free.
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Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar are the big airlines you will find at the terminal in Perth.
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The airport links to perth city by public transport. You can also use taxis or rideshare if you want.
Introduction
Welcome to your easy guide for getting around Perth Airport. This is the main airport in Western Australia’s capital city. Many people start their trips here, both in Australia and overseas. You could be in Perth to see the beautiful parts of WA, heading out for work, or just stopping through. This guide will help you with all the details you need. We talk about the terminals, ways to get to and from the airport, and give tips for an easy trip. We want your time at Perth Airport to go well, every time.
Perth Airport Overview
Perth Airport is a very important place for all of western australia. It is the fourth busiest airport in the whole country. This the main spot where people come to and go from perth, which is the capital city.
The airport has two main parts, with four different terminals. These terminals are used for international, domestic, and regional flights. Knowing a bit about this layout can help make your trip easy and smooth. In this guide, we will talk about the location, some background, and key facts about perth airport.
Location and Accessibility
Perth Airport sits just 15 km from the city centre of Perth, so it’s quick and easy to get there. If you’re driving, use Airport Drive. It links straight to the main highways and takes you right in or out of the terminals. This direct link means your trip to or from the Perth CBD will not be hard.
If you want to use public transport, there are great choices. Airport Central Station sits on the Airport Line. This train gives you a quick ride right into the city centre and nearby suburbs. This up-to-date travel option makes moving between the airport and city easier than ever.
There is also Jandakot Airport, found south of Perth. Jandakot Airport takes care of most of the local general aviation, but if you need commercial flights, Perth Airport is the spot. There are all kinds of ways to get there, like taxis, rideshares, and shuttle buses.
Key Facts and Statistics
As the largest and busiest airport in Western Australia, Perth Airport plays a significant role in the state’s economy and connectivity. It holds the title of the fourth busiest airport in Australia, handling millions of passengers each year across its four terminals.
The airport serves as a vital link for international travel, domestic routes across the country, and essential regional services that connect remote communities. While general aviation is primarily managed at other airfields, Perth Airport is the commercial heart of air travel in the region.
Here are some key facts about the airport:
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Feature |
Detail |
|---|---|
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IATA Code |
PER |
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Location |
15 km from Perth CBD |
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Status |
Fourth busiest airport in Australia |
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Terminals |
Four (T1, T2, T3, T4) |
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Serves |
International, Domestic, and Regional flights |
Historical Background
The history of Perth Airport is about growth and change. It started to meet the needs of people in Western Australia. At first, other places like Jandakot Airport took care of much of the general aviation. This let the main airport stay focused on the commercial flights.
Over the years, the airport went from being a small airfield to a big international gateway. It has seen many big moments. There was the first Virgin Australia flight, which gave people more choices and increased competition for travellers. This was an important step for the airport and for Perth.
Now, the airport is a modern place and keeps on growing. It helps connect Perth, not only to the rest of Australia, but also to the whole world. It gives regional services which are important for people all over the state. The journey of Perth Airport shows how important it has be, through many years, in the story of aviation in Australia.
Terminals at Perth Airport
Perth Airport is set out in a different way, with four main terminals placed in two groups. On one side, there is Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2). Then, after a short drive, you get to Terminal 3 (T3) and Terminal 4 (T4).
Each terminal building at Perth Airport is set up for different airlines and types of flights. You could be taking off on an overseas flight, or maybe it’s a local or regional service. It is important to know which terminal you need for your flight. This helps make your time at the airport smooth and easy. Below, we’ll show you what to expect at all of the main terminals at Perth Airport.
Terminal 1 – International
Terminal 1 at Perth Airport is the main international terminal. It handles most flights going in and out of other countries. If you fly on international flights with big airlines like Singapore Airlines or South African Airways, you will start or finish your trip at this terminal.
T1 also runs some local flights. Qantas flights to Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands leave from this terminal. For these Qantas trips, there are special baggage limits. Make sure you check your booking for baggage details.
Being the main international terminal, T1 has all the things global travellers may need. You will find immigration, customs services, currency exchange, and duty-free shops. Always use your airline to confirm which terminal to go to when you fly out of Perth Airport.
Terminal 2 – Regional Domestic
Terminal 2 sits right next to Terminal 1 in Perth. It mainly handles regional flights, along with some domestic flights in Australia. This terminal is pretty important for airlines that help people travel between Perth and towns across Western Australia. It is used by both business people and those heading out for some time off.
You will find airlines like Alliance Airlines and Regional Express (Rex) at T2. They make sure there are good regional services around Western Australia. Jetstar also used to run some domestic flights from T2, but it’s a good idea to always check your flight details as things can change. Airnorth flights were handled in this precinct too.
The terminal is smaller and set up to make things go quickly, because it mainly deals with shorter regional and domestic flights. So, if you are flying from Perth to somewhere within WA, there’s a good chance that you will go through Terminal 2.
Terminal 3 & 4 – Main Domestic
Terminals 3 and 4 make up another main area at the airport. This precinct is set up mostly for domestic flights. Both terminals sit next to each other here in Perth, and they have some of the largest airlines in Australia.
T4 is where Qantas and QantasLink run most of their domestic flights. It is Qantas’ biggest spot for moving people between cities in Australia.
Terminal 3 is used by different airlines. It was the main place for Virgin Australia’s local flights before. Now, Jetstar runs its domestic flights from here. This precinct is busy, bringing people to and from Perth and many big cities in Australia.
You can walk between T3 and T4 easily since they are linked. It makes catching flights with Qantas, Virgin Australia or Jetstar much simpler. Make sure to check your ticket to see which terminal—T3 or T4—you need.
Moving Between Terminals
Getting around the main terminals at Perth is pretty easy, but you do need to plan ahead. The two terminal precincts, T1/T2 and T3/T4, are about a 15-minute drive apart. You can’t walk between them inside the airport, so you need to use ground transport to get from one to the other.
That’s why the airport has a free terminal transfer bus for everyone to use. If you are moving between terminals in the same precinct—like T3 and T4—the walking path is easy to find and well marked. Here’s more about your transport options to help make your transfer go smoothly.
Shuttle Services and Transport Options
The easiest way to get between the T1/T2 area and the T3/T4 area is to use the free terminal transfer bus. This airport shuttle bus runs all day and night. It only takes about 15 minutes, so it makes Perth Airport transfers between these parts quite easy.
The bus stops are right out the front of the terminals. You just need to follow the signs for the shuttle when you leave the building. This service helps, especially for people going from an international flight at T1 to a local flight at T3 or T4, or the other way around.
Here are your main ground transportation options for transfers:
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Terminal Transfer Bus: The free service between the T1/T2 and T3/T4 precincts.
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Taxis and Rideshare: You can take a taxi or rideshare for a faster trip, but this will cost more if you’re in a rush.
Walking Routes and Signage
You can’t walk from one main terminal precinct to the other at Perth Airport. But it is easy to move between terminals if they are in the same area. There are clear walking tracks which make it simple to get from Terminal 3 to Terminal 4.
The signs at Perth Airport are made to help you know where you want to go. When you leave a terminal building, look at the signs at the front of each terminal. These let you know how to get to other terminals, find transport, or use passenger services. Just check both the overhead and the signs that are standing out the front.
For terminals in the same precinct:
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T3 to T4: There is a walkway made for these terminals. Follow the signs and you will get there.
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T1 to T2: These terminals are next to each other. A short path, which is easy to spot, links them.
Tips for Smooth Transfers
To make sure you have a stress-free move between terminals, the main thing is to give yourself plenty of time. You will need to get on a bus to travel between the precincts, and this can take about 15 minutes. You also might have to check your luggage again. If you have extra time, it will give you peace of mind.
If you are coming in on an international flight, keep in mind that you will need to grab your baggage and go through customs before you head off to the next terminal. When you are making your booking, have a look at your itinerary to see if you need to change terminals and plan for that.
Here are a few tips for a hassle-free transfer:
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Allow at least an hour for the transfer process between the T1/T2 and T3/T4 precincts.
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Check your baggage requirements. You will likely need to collect your luggage and check it in again at the next terminal.
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Confirm your terminals before you travel to avoid any last-minute confusion.
Arrivals and Departures
It’s easy to keep track of your flight at Perth Airport. Whether you are checking arrivals or getting ready to leave, it helps a lot to have flight details in real time. The airport gives you a few ways to see the live status of your flight.
When you land, you will go to the arrivals hall to get your bags from the right carousel. If there is any problem with your baggage, baggage services at Perth are there to help. These are the main things you need to know when it comes to the arrivals and departures process.
Live Flight Status and Updates
Knowing what’s happening with your flight is important on the day of travel. The easiest way to stay up-to-date is to use the Perth Airport website or the app from Perth Airport. These let you check live flight details for all arrivals and departures.
All you have to do is enter your flight number or where you’re going. You will see if your flight is on time, running late, or moved to another gate. This comes in handy whether you are flying or picking someone up. The information gets updated all the time so you get the most up‑to‑date facts.
If you want things to be easier, download the Perth Airport app before the day of travel. The app can send push messages to your phone, telling you about changes or delays. This lets you stay ready and takes some stress out of your trip.
Check-in Procedures
Your check-in at Perth Airport will be different depending on your airline. Qantas and others let you check in online or with their app for domestic flights 24 hours before your plane leaves. You can do this for international flights, too, from 24 hours before you go. Doing this is the quickest way to get your boarding pass. It also lets you pick your seat.
If you have luggage to check, you can go to a self-service bag drop after you do your online check-in. Or you can walk over to your airline’s counter in the right terminal. Always keep in mind your airline’s baggage limits. You can see these in your booking details. If you bring too much baggage, you may need to pay extra.
If you need help, want to speak to someone, or need to check in face-to-face, customer service agents are ready at the counters. It’s best to get to the airport well before your flight, especially with international travel, so you have plenty of time for check-in and screening.
Immigration and Customs
When you arrive on an international flight at Perth Airport, you need to go through immigration and customs. These checks happen at the international terminal, T1. After you get off the plane, follow the signs. Go to the immigration hall. Here, your passport and visa will get checked.
After you clear immigration, you can head to baggage claim. Pick up your luggage there. Next, you will need to go through customs and a biosecurity check. Australia is strict about what you can bring in. Make sure you declare any food, plant things, or animal items.
If you are catching a connecting flight from international to domestic and it is at a different terminal, you have to finish all these steps at T1 first. This means collect your baggage and take it with you to the next terminal to check in again.
These are the steps for all people arriving at Perth’s international terminal. The rules help keep Australia safe.
Passenger Facilities and Amenities
Perth Airport has a lot to help you feel good while you wait. You get many things there, like nice lounges, quiet spots to sit, and free Wi-Fi in all the terminals.
You can get something to eat, shop before you fly out, or find a good spot to work. There is also airport parking, money exchange, and plenty of ATMs. Here’s what you’ll see when you come to Perth.
Lounges and Relaxation Zones
If you want somewhere quiet and comfy before your flight, Perth Airport has a few good lounge options. Qantas has more than one lounge. You can find the Qantas Domestic Business Lounge in T4 or the International Lounge in T3. They are great spaces to relax or get some work done if you are allowed to go in.
Some other airlines give you spaces of their own, too. There is the Virgin Australia Lounge in the domestic precinct. In T1, partner lounges like the Air New Zealand Lounge are there for eligible travellers. You get in based on which airline you are flying with, your seat class, or your frequent flyer level.
Even if you do not have lounge access, you can still find places to sit and relax around the terminals. These quiet spots have comfy chairs away from the busy areas. It is easy to sit back before you need to board your flight.
Dining, Shopping, and Essentials
You will not be hungry at Perth Airport. There is lots of food to choose from in every terminal. There are cafes if you want a coffee and something to eat fast. If you need a bigger meal, sit-down restaurants are also there. You will find something that fits your taste and budget.
The airport has great shopping too. You can check out duty-free shops in the international terminal. Grab a book or magazine for your trip, or shop for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. It is a good time to get last-minute gifts or things you need while you travel.
To make things easy for you, the airport has all the basics. There are ATMs and places to exchange currency in each terminal. Pharmacies and convenience stores are here too, so you can get any items you forgot.
Wi-Fi Access and Connectivity
Staying connected at Perth Airport is simple with free Wi-Fi in all terminals. You can use it to check your email, browse the web, or look at your social media. It gives you good and steady internet while you are at the airport.
To get on the Wi-Fi, look for the airport’s network on your device. Follow the steps shown on your screen to connect. The service works well, so you can be online after just a few taps. The Wi-Fi lets you stream, download, or do what you need before your flight.
For even more help, the Perth Airport app gives you flight updates and helps you find places and services in the airport. When you use both the app and Wi-Fi, you get all the info you need for an easy trip.
Airlines and Destinations
Perth Airport is where people from Western Australia head out to see the world. It links the area with lots of places far and wide. The airport has many airlines that run all sorts of flights. The flights go long distances for international trips, short trips inside Australia, and also reach towns that might be far from big cities.
No matter if you want to visit a big city overseas, another main town in Australia, or a small spot in the outback, you can fly out of Perth. Here are the main airlines you can fly with from perth, plus the main routes they take for international flights and regional services in western australia.
Major Airlines Operating from Perth
Perth Airport has a lot of airlines flying in and out. Qantas is the big one for Australia. It has many flights, both local and to other countries, that go mostly from Terminals 3 and 4. Jetstar is a part of Qantas, and it also flies domestic flights from T3.
Virgin Australia flies a good number of domestic flights from Perth as well. For trips inside western australia, Alliance Airlines helps get people to different towns and cities.
When looking at flights heading overseas, there are a number of big names. Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific link Perth to their main hubs. Batik Air has direct flights to places in Asia that are not too far away. Make sure to check with your airline about which terminal to use at Perth Airport.
Domestic and International Routes
From Perth, you can fly to most places. There are a lot of domestic flights every day. You can get to big cities in Australia, like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. These are the main travel routes for the country. Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar run these flights.
The number of international flights is good as well. Perth is a main gateway for Australia, connecting to Asia, Europe, and Africa. You can go straight to big cities like Singapore, Dubai, and Doha. Singapore Airlines and Emirates run these flights. Perth Airport is also where you can get the Qantas flight from Australia to London, which is non-stop.
Perth Airport also handles some important and special flights. These include trips to places like Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. These flights leave from the international terminal because the islands are far from the mainland.
Parking and Ground Transportation
Getting to Perth Airport is easy. There are many ground transportation options. You can drive and use airport parking. You can take a taxi or try rideshare services like Uber or Didi. Public transport is also a good way to get there. No matter what way you choose, you will find something that works for you.
Perth Airport transfers are made to be simple for everyone. There are special pick-up and drop-off spots for each type of transport. To plan your trip, let us look at airport parking, car hire options, and links to public transport.
Parking Options and Rates
Perth Airport offers a variety of parking options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you need short term parking for a quick drop-off or pick-up, or long-term parking for an extended trip, you’ll find suitable carparks located conveniently close to the terminals.
There are dedicated car parks for each terminal precinct. For instance, you will find short and long-term options at both the T1/T2 and T3/T4 precincts, as well as specific regional car parks. Booking your airport parking online in advance is often the best way to secure a good deal, as rates can be significantly lower than the drive-up prices.
For the most current information on parking options and rates, it’s always best to check the official Perth Airport website. Below is a general guide to the types of parking available.
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Parking Type |
Best For |
Location |
|---|---|---|
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Short Term |
Pick-ups, drop-offs, and visits under a few hours |
Directly opposite the terminals |
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Long Term |
Trips of a day or more, offering the best value |
A short shuttle bus ride from the terminals |
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Fast Track |
Business travellers seeking ultimate convenience |
Closest self-park bays to the terminals |
Car Hire, Taxis, and Rideshare
If you like to use your own car, there are a few car hire companies at Perth Airport. Their desks are in the arrivals area. You can pick up your car as soon as you land and be on your way fast.
To get straight to where you need to go, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and DiDi are easy to find. Taxi ranks are right in front of each terminal. There are signs showing you where to go for taxis and rideshare apps. Just head to the right spot to meet your driver.
Here’s a quick summary of your options:
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Taxi: Available at dedicated taxi ranks outside each terminal.
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Rideshare (Uber, DiDi, etc.): Order via their app and meet your driver at the designated pick-up zone.
Public Transport Links
Perth has a good public transport system. It helps people get to and from the airport easily and for less money. The Airport Line train is a new way for travellers to move between the airport and the Perth CBD. It takes about 20 minutes.
The main stop for the train, Airport Central Station, sits right beside the T1 and T2 precinct. If you need to use T3 or T4, there is a free shuttle bus. This bus takes you to the station. The station is simple to get to from the ground floor in the terminal. Signs show you the way.
There are also buses that run to the airport. These bus routes go to different parts of Perth. Taking the train or bus is not just cheap. It is also better for the planet.
Special Services and Assistance
Perth Airport wants to make sure all people feel welcome and comfortable when they travel. The airport has services and special help for people who need extra support. This includes people who have disabilities, families with kids, and visitors from other countries.
There is help for getting around the airport. Families will find things to make trips with kids easier. The aim is for everyone to have a good trip and not worry about problems. Here, you can see what Perth Airport offers for easy access, help for internationals, and family-friendly services.
Support for International Travellers
For people who fly in from other countries, stepping into a new place can feel a bit tough. In Perth, airport staff and volunteers are there to help you and answer your questions. The team want to make sure the start of your trip goes well.
When you land, the first thing to do is go through immigration and customs. If you get stuck or have questions about your visa, just ask the staff. They will show you the right way and send you to the right people to talk to. Signs in different languages help all travellers know what to do next.
If you are a traveller going from an international to a domestic flight, you will have to move to another terminal after customs. Someone can help you find the terminal transfer bus. That way, you get to your next terminal and on your flight with no problem.
Accessibility Features
Perth Airport wants all people to move around the terminals without trouble. There are ramps, lifts, and toilets for everyone, and signs that help you find these places. You can check in, arrive, or get transport from the ground floor in every terminal. It is easy to get to these spots.
If you need a wheelchair or help with moving, book with your airline before you fly. The airline will set up support staff who meet you and help out.
Car parks at the airport have special parking bays for people with an accessibility permit. These are close to the terminal doors. Perth Airport keeps working to make sure it fits what every traveller needs.
Family and Child-friendly Services
Travelling with your family at Perth Airport is easy because the airport has a lot of services for children. There are special parenting rooms in every terminal. These rooms are private. You can feed your child or change them there.
In these rooms, you will find changing tables and microwaves. There is also comfy seating. This can help you feel less stressed when you travel with young kids. The airport is built so you can use prams. Lifts and ramps are all over the terminals.
There may be different play areas, but the large terminals let kids move around and stretch before a flight. Many places where you can eat also have meals for kids on the menu. This helps younger travellers find something they like.
Social Media and Official Information
Keeping up with what’s happening at Perth Airport is simple. The airport gives you updates, travel tips, and news through social media and their official Perth Airport app. This is the best place to get real information straight from the source.
If you have a question, you can go to the customer service counters inside the terminals. It does not matter if you use the app or follow them online. Staying connected with Perth Airport means you will have the most up-to-date details for your trip.
Perth Airport’s Online Updates
If you want the latest news and updates online, it’s good to follow Perth Airport’s official social media channels. The airport uses Facebook, X (which used to be Twitter), and Instagram. On these sites, it gives helpful information to travellers.
These channels share updates as things happen. You can get news on flights, delays, and changes with weather. There are also travel tips, info on new routes and services, plus stories about what’s going on around the airport. This is the best way to get messages straight from them.
When you follow their social media accounts, you stay up to date before you get to the airport. This helps you plan your trip before you leave. You will also know if anything comes up that could change your plans, so your travel can go more smoothly.
Using the Perth Airport App
The Perth Airport app is a must-have for anyone flying in or out of Perth. The app gives you lots of handy info right on your phone, which helps you get around the terminal. It makes the trip easier and less stressful. You can get the app for free on both iOS and Android.
One feature people really like is the app’s live flight tracking. You will get real online updates and notifications on your flight. The app tells you if your gate has changed, when it’s time to board, or if there is a delay. The terminal maps let you see where your gate is, as well as places to eat and shop.
Key features of the Perth Airport app include:
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Live flight status tracking: You get updates on your own flight as it happens.
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Airport navigation: The maps show you how to get to gates, lounges, and other things in the terminal.
Locating Customer Service Counters
If you need help at Perth Airport, customer service counters are ready to give support. The counters have friendly airport ambassadors. They can answer many questions, like which way to go or telling you about flight times.
These counters sit in important spots in every terminal. You will find them in the main check-in area or arrivals hall. You can see signs so you know where to look. If you want to ask about connecting flights or need help to find a place, the staff will be happy to help.
The Perth Airport app and website can help, too. But sometimes it’s better to talk to someone in person. So, don’t be shy, walk up to the customer service desk if you have any problem while you are at the airport.
Conclusion
To sum up, moving around Perth Airport can be easy if you know what to expect. The airport has a mix of terminals, many places for travellers to eat and relax, and simple ways to get in and out. It suits all types of people, whether you are coming or going. The best parts in this guide will help you get the most from your time at Perth. Be sure to check live flight updates, and use the Perth app for quick news and info. Have a good trip! If you want your travel to be right for you, look at booking a free chat and plan your trip well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which terminal should I use for my flight?
The correct terminal for your flight will be on your booking confirmation or ticket. Make sure you check this info before the day of travel. Different airlines go from different terminals at Perth Airport. You can also find your terminal on the Perth Airport website.
How can I check real-time arrivals and departures?
You can look up flight status for all arrivals and departures on the Perth Airport website or with the official Perth Airport app. These options give you the most up-to-date info, so you know about any changes to your flight schedule.
What transport options are available from Perth Airport?
There are lots of ways to get around. You can go by taxi or get an Uber from the spots set up for them. The free airport shuttle bus is there to help you go between the airport terminals. If you want a fast way to the city, you can use the Airport Line train or go by public transport.