Darwin International Airport
Darwin International Airport, also shared with RAAF Darwin, is the main air gateway for Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory. Known by the codes DRW and YPDN, it is a large airport that connects the city with domestic and international routes while also supporting military operations on the same airfield. Sitting at an elevation of 103 feet above sea level, the airport is compact enough to feel manageable for most travellers, yet important enough to handle a steady mix of regional, long-haul, and operational traffic.
About Darwin International Airport
Darwin International Airport, also shared with RAAF Darwin, is the main air gateway for Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory. Known by the codes DRW and YPDN, it is a large airport that connects the city with domestic and international routes while also supporting military operations on the same airfield. Sitting at an elevation of 103 feet above sea level, the airport is compact enough to feel manageable for most travellers, yet important enough to handle a steady mix of regional, long-haul, and operational traffic.
Overview
Darwin International Airport, also shared with RAAF Darwin, is the main air gateway for Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory. Known by the codes DRW and YPDN, it is a large airport that connects the city with domestic and international routes while also supporting military operations on the same airfield. Sitting at an elevation of 103 feet above sea level, the airport is compact enough to feel manageable for most travellers, yet important enough to handle a steady mix of regional, long-haul, and operational traffic.
Quick facts
- Official name: Darwin International Airport / RAAF Darwin
- Airport codes: DRW (IATA) and YPDN (ICAO)
- Location served: Darwin, Australia
- Time zone: Australia/Darwin
- Runways: 11/29 is 11,004 feet, and 18/36 is 5,000 feet
- Surface and lighting: both runways are asphalt and lighted
What travellers should know
For visitors, the airport’s dual civil and defence role is part of what makes it distinctive, but day-to-day travel is straightforward. The longer Runway 11/29 is well suited to larger aircraft and longer services, while the second runway adds operational flexibility. Because Darwin is a tropical city and a major base for exploring the Top End, travellers should allow time for weather-related adjustments during the wet season and check local timing carefully, as Australia/Darwin does not follow the daylight saving changes seen elsewhere. For current flight, parking, and terminal information, the most reliable source is the airport’s official website at darwinairport.com.au.
Routes
Top routes from DRW
No routes tracked from DRW yet.
Nearby airports
Other airports in Australia
FAQ
Darwin International Airport — frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the details travellers usually check first, from codes and locations to the practical basics that help with planning.
3 common questions
- Darwin International Airport is located in Darwin, Australia (Oceania), at coordinates -12.410°, 130.880°.
- Its IATA code is DRW and its ICAO code is YPDN.
- Darwin International Airport operates on Australia/Darwin local time.