30–40 minutes from Brisbane Airport to the suburbs on Route 590
Bus Route 590 is a Brisbane City Council service linking Brisbane Airport with nearby suburbs in about 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. The service runs every 30 minutes, so you’re not stuck waiting an hour if you miss one. It’s a standard Translink bus, not an express airport coach, so expect local stops along the way.
The 590 connects the airport precinct with Toombul and other northside suburbs, making it useful if you’re staying away from the CBD or transferring to other bus routes. Services operate across the day, but late-night options thin out, so check the Translink timetable if your flight lands after about 21:00. Fares sit in the standard go card zones, usually cheaper than the dedicated airport train for nearby suburbs.
From the International Terminal, follow signs to the public transport area at the arrivals level, where airport buses and council routes stop at clearly marked bays. The 590 uses regular bus stands, not a private coach bay, and you’ll see the route number on the front display. From the Domestic Terminal, look for the same public bus signage outside arrivals; allow about 10 minutes to walk out, find the stop, and line up.
You can pay on Route 590 using a go card or contactless payment on compatible bank cards and devices, charged at standard Translink bus fares. Drivers do accept cash, but exact or near-exact change speeds things up when you’re boarding with luggage. A typical single trip from the airport to Toombul or other close suburbs sits in the lower zone brackets, usually under A$10 for adults.
Because Route 590 is a regular council bus, luggage space is limited to the usual rack and floor area near the front door; there’s no dedicated under-bus hold, so keep to one suitcase and a carry-on if you can. If your flight lands close to the 30-minute headway, it’s worth checking the Translink app while you’re still at the gate and walking straight to the stop to hit the next departure instead of waiting for the following one.
- •Not connecting to the Skygate Loop Bus for terminal access.