The Australian Federal Police will deploy highly visible patrols across major airports this holiday season as Australia braces for a record-breaking surge in air travel.
According to the Australian Airports Association, more than 23.4 million domestic and international passengers are expected to pass through the nation’s busiest airports during December and January, making it one of the most demanding peak periods on record.
AFP Acting Aviation Commander Josh Sinclair-Wadham said more than 500 uniformed policing members would be deployed across the AFP’s nine designated airports, focusing on high-visibility patrols to keep travellers safe and minimise disruption.
“As passenger numbers continue to increase during the holiday period, the AFP will continue to surge to meet this requirement and deliver on our protection obligations at AFP-designated airports,” he said.
The holiday deployment follows a year of intensified aviation security activity by the Australian Federal Police. In 2025 alone, AFP members have undertaken more than 130,900 hours of proactive aviation operations — a 28 per cent increase compared with the same period last year.
Since January, AFP officers have responded to more than 21,000 incidents at major airports, with 1,160 people charged over 1,364 offences, including drug-related crimes, acts of violence and theft.
Commander Sinclair-Wadham said police patrols would be targeting intoxication, offensive and disruptive behaviour, as well as the possession of prohibited items such as illicit drugs and weapons. Specialist capabilities, including national canine units and short barrel rifle teams, will also support frontline operations.
“Periods of heavy passenger movement, combined with longer waiting times, are when we tend to see an increase in antisocial or disruptive behaviour,” he said.
“The AFP encourages travellers to be patient with unexpected delays and to follow advice from airlines and airport staff. Anyone who breaks the law will be dealt with swiftly and brought before the courts.”
The policing surge is being supported by the Australian Border Force, with officers redeployed across airports nationwide to manage the increased flow of travellers.
Australian Border Force Travel East Acting Commander Geoff Quinn said tens of thousands of passengers were arriving and departing Australia every day during the peak holiday period.
“With this sheer volume of travellers, some delays are inevitable,” he said.
“We stand shoulder to shoulder with our federal counterparts and airport partners in stamping out antisocial behaviour. Our officers deserve to carry out their duties without abuse.”
Commander Quinn urged passengers to allow extra time for travel, particularly with congestion around airport precincts, while reassuring the public that border security vigilance remained uncompromised.
“Our attention does not waver when it comes to monitoring suspicious passengers or potential threats,” he said. “Those attempting to conceal illicit goods will not bypass our officers.”
The AFP has again reminded travellers to report anything unusual through Airport Watch on 131 237. The program plays a critical role in aviation security by providing timely information to police to help detect and respond to suspicious or criminal activity.
Authorities encourage reports of behaviour such as unusual interest in security procedures, photographing sensitive areas, attempts to access secure zones, or individuals asking probing questions about airport operations.
With millions set to travel over the festive season, authorities say cooperation, patience and vigilance will be key to ensuring a safe and smooth journey for everyone.
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