Canberra Airport

Located around 8 km east of Canberra’s city centre, Canberra Airport (CBR) is an important gateway for travellers heading to the ski fields of southern New South Wales. While smaller than Sydney or Melbourne airports, it offers a convenient and less congested alternative, with regular domestic flights from major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

Canberra Airport is well equipped with car hire facilities, cafés, restaurants, free Wi-Fi and modern passenger amenities, making it easy to begin a ski holiday. Hiring a car is the most popular way to reach the nearby ski resorts, providing flexibility for carrying ski equipment and exploring the Snowy Mountains region.

The closest major ski destination is Selwyn Snow Resort, approximately 2.5 hours' drive from the airport. Perisher, Australia's largest ski resort, can be reached in around 2.5 to 3 hours, while Thredbo is about a 3-hour drive. The scenic journey follows well-maintained highways through the Snowy Mountains, with plenty of opportunities to stop in towns such as Cooma, the gateway to the Australian Alps.

During the winter ski season, several private operators also offer shuttle transfers from Canberra Airport to the Snowy Mountains, although services are generally less frequent than those from Sydney. For visitors seeking shorter queues, quick arrivals and convenient access to Australia's premier ski resorts, Canberra Airport is an excellent choice.

Getting to and from Canberra Airport

Direct services operate from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart and several regional destinations, making Canberra easily accessible for both business and leisure travellers. The modern terminal offers fast check-in, efficient security screening and a comfortable arrivals experience. For visitors planning a ski holiday, flying into Canberra can save time and avoid the congestion often experienced at larger airports. After landing, travellers can hire a car or arrange a transfer to reach the Snowy Mountains and nearby ski resorts within a few hours.

Canberra Airport (CBR) Car Parking

Canberra Airport offers a range of convenient parking options to suit both short visits and extended trips, making it an excellent choice for travellers heading to the nearby ski resorts. Short Stay parking is located within easy walking distance of the terminal and is ideal for drop-offs, pick-ups or brief business trips. For longer holidays, including ski breaks in the Snowy Mountains, Long Stay parking provides a more economical option while remaining close to the terminal via a short walk.

Premium parking spaces are also available for those wanting the quickest access to departures and arrivals. All airport car parks are well lit, monitored and designed for easy access, with accessible parking spaces located near the terminal entrance. Travellers can pre-book parking online to secure the best rates, particularly during the busy winter ski season.

Ski Destinations from Canberra Airport

The nearest ski resorts to Canberra Airport are located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, making the airport a convenient gateway for winter sports. Selwyn Snow Resort is the closest, around 160 km away and approximately a 2.5-hour drive, making it popular with families and beginners. Perisher, Australia's largest ski resort, is about 210 km from the airport and can be reached in around 2.5 to 3 hours. Thredbo Alpine Resort is slightly further at approximately 230 km, with a driving time of around 3 hours. Hiring a car is the most convenient way to reach all three resorts.

Car Rental Options at Canberra Airport

Car hire at Canberra Airport provides one of the easiest and most flexible ways to reach the ski resorts of the Snowy Mountains. Several major rental companies operate from the terminal, including well-known international and Australian brands, offering a wide selection of vehicles ranging from compact cars to large SUVs suitable for winter travel.

The rental desks are conveniently located within or adjacent to the terminal, allowing travellers to collect their vehicle shortly after landing. During the ski season, booking in advance is recommended, particularly if you require an SUV or vehicle fitted with winter tyres where available.

The drive to Perisher, Thredbo and Selwyn Snow Resort follows well-maintained highways and generally takes between 2.5 and 3 hours. Drivers should be aware of New South Wales alpine road regulations, which may require carrying snow chains when entering the national park during winter, even if driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Hiring a car gives visitors the freedom to explore the Snowy Mountains at their own pace.

Airlines flying from Canberra Airport

Quantas	Website
Virgin Australia	Website
Jetstar	Website
Qatar Airways	Website
Fiji Airways	Website
Pelican Airlines	Website
Link Airways	Website