The Flip

Travellers may notice changes as they make their way through international departures at Auckland Airport – Auckland Airport is preparing for a more integrated future where domestic jet and international travel come together under one roof. 

As part of this, the departures journey is changing, but it will remain familiar for travellers. 

After check-in for international flights, travellers will still go through passport control and security screening, but over time, the order is switching. Security screening will move to being first, followed by passport control, bringing us in line with international airport practice. 

The Flip project is being worked on collaboratively with Customs New Zealand and the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) - who provides the Aviation Security Service (AvSec) - and will align Auckland Airport’s departure process with many airports globally and support a future-ready border process. 

It will pave the way for how travellers are processed through the new terminal, along with provide a safer environment for both travellers and staff. 

This change will be introduced in stages and travellers may follow different pathways as they enter the departures area as the works are carried out. 

The new process will be fully in place by end-2027, and some construction activity will continue through to the start of 2029. 

There’s nothing extra for travellers to do. Clear signage and our frontline teams will guide travellers on the day – travellers should follow the signs and staff directions as they move through passport control.  

Click here to learn more.