Continuous capacity analysis work for Brisbane Airport
Continuous capacity analysis work for Brisbane Airport
Turning checkpoint concepts into scalable passenger solutions
Services provided
Modelling report review and update
Operational system data analysis
Review of tender-submitted lane and checkpoint layouts to provide objective capacity projections
Static modelling and dynamic simulation of multiple Domestic Terminal checkpoint designs
Security layout optimisation and impact modelling
Key results
Updated and validated input assumptions for both International and Domestic security modelling
Objective review of tender responses solution proposal and capacity claims
Objective comparison of tender responses based on capacity metrics
Optimisation proposals for lane layout refinement and enhanced throughput
Modelling of an additional premium checkpoint concept for potential phased upgrade
Client reference
“PointFWD have been advising BAC over many years on throughput and optimisation strategies. Most recently, throughout May and June this year, PointFWD was engaged to analyse a major variation to the DTB screening lanes, informing the Steering Committee and supporting the decision-making process.”
— Joe Gigante, Senior Contracts Major Projects, Brisbane Airport Corporation
Project description
Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) is undertaking a phased upgrade of its security screening operations, transitioning toward next-generation checkpoint solutions. Since 2019, Point FWD has supported BAC across various stages — from trial evaluations and data analysis to technology and modelling workshops. As the project progressed, Point FWD became the trusted partner for validating checkpoint concepts, with a focus on capacity analysis and performance modelling.
Challenges
Following the disruptions caused by COVID-19, much of the earlier work conducted in 2019 — including trials at the International Terminal Building (ITB) — had become outdated due to shifts in passenger behaviour and operational dynamics. As Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) resumed its checkpoint upgrade initiative, it became necessary to revisit and recalibrate previously gathered insights. At the same time, several tender submissions introduced new checkpoint layouts and technology combinations, prompting the need for objective capacity validation through detailed modelling. Before moving to implementation, BAC also required independent validation of the final checkpoint configurations to ensure they met long-term performance targets and could scale effectively with future growth.
Our solution
Point FWD applies a data-driven validation approach, tailored to the evolving project needs. We:
Updated modelling variables to reflect post-COVID operational realities
Leveraged live operational data to refine throughput and queuing assumptions
Used both static analysis and dynamic simulation to test proposed checkpoint layouts under realistic scenarios
Provided clear reporting structures to communicate findings, identify bottlenecks, and highlight improvement opportunities
Delivered optimisation proposals with quantified impact projections, enabling confident design and procurement decisions
About Brisbane Airport Corporation
Brisbane Airport Corporation operates one of Australia’s major aviation gateways. Recognised for its forward-looking strategy and operational excellence, BAC is committed to delivering seamless, secure, and efficient travel experiences for millions of passengers annually.
“PointFW have been advising BAC over many years on throughput and optimisation strategies.
PointFWD provided support during BAC’s recent transition from Standard 2 to Standard 3 security screening (2025). As Standard 3 passenger screening lanes were introduced at both the Domestic and International terminals, PointFWD delivered scenario analyses across multiple configurations helping BAC finalise the layout of the screening lanes.
BAC’s working relationship with PointFWD dates back to 2019, during the concept phase of the Domestic Terminal Building Security Upgrade Project (DTB SUP). After the DTB layouts were confirmed in April 2025, PointFWD again supported BAC with throughput analysis and optimisation suggestions, including refined staging inputs and improved passenger flow.
Most recently, throughout May and June this year, PointFWD was engaged to analyse a major variation to the DTB screening lanes, informing the Steering Committee and supporting the decision-making process.”
- Joe Gigante, Senior Contracts Major Projects, Brisbane Airport Corporation
Get in touch
Curious how this could work for your airport? Let’s talk.
Tjeerd van der Meulen
Lead Consultant
Planning and Design →