Brisbane Airport asks flood victims not to shelter at airport

Airport begs people to stay away unless travelling - "the terminals are not equipped with the bedding, food or water supplies".

Brisbane Airport Corporation today said 150 people arrived unexpectedly at the Brisbane International Airport terminal after being incorrectly told it was an official evacuation centre.

The airport took them in and gave them shelter in gate lounges, but asked Brisbane residents to go elsewhere if they needed evacuation, as the airport was not a designated evacuation centre.

There are not adequate supplies of food and water at the airport, the airport operator said, nor did it have any bedding available for people to sleep with.

Despite the dire situation in Queensland, Brisbane Airport is still operating and not flooded. However, availability of transport to and from the airport is limited — the AirTrain will only operate half-hourly today, and only hourly to the Gold Coast. Although taxis are still running, traffic is extremely congested in Brisbane due to the number of roadways that are flooded.

CoachTrans bus service to the CBD is operating on demand for today, however the services to the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast are operating as normal. CoachTrans night services for Wednesday are cancelled.

Further updates on public transport options to and from the airport are at Translink's website.

The airport warned roads around the business precincts of the airport are likely to be flooded today, including Myrtletown Rd and Eaglefarm Rd. However, major roads to and from the terminal including Moreton Drive and Airport Drive are clear of water. The 131940.qld.gov.au website has the latest information on road closures.

Australian Business Traveller's continuing flood coverage

For up to the minute coverage of the flooding in Brisbane and Queensland, follow our @AusBT Twitter account and check back on our homepage at www.ausbt.com.au.

Travel plans around Brisbane or the affected areas? We've contacted all airlines flying to and from Brisbane to find out which airlines are waiving change fees for Brisbane flights.

Will your credit card travel insurance cover changes and lost luggage? Check out our full insurance coverage.

danwarne