Gather Round delivers busiest week on record for Adelaide Airport

South Australia’s blockbuster 2026 AFL Gather Round has broken another economic record – delivering Adelaide Airport its busiest ever week in the state’s history.

Official passenger figures released today show almost 200,000 people travelled through the airport in the week leading up to and including Gather Round – the largest weekly air travel crowd on record.

From April 7 to 13, the Tuesday before Gather Round up to and including the Monday after Gather Round when many visitors departed, a record 199,482 travelled through Adelaide Airport.

The air passenger milestone further demonstrates Gather Round’s national appeal and its significant contribution to South Australia’s visitor economy.

A record-breaking 270,018 fans attended the 2026 AFL Gather Round, highlighting South Australia’s success as the host of major events.

The crowd surpassed last year’s record of 269,506.

The milestone attendance has cemented Gather Round’s status as a premier fixture on the national sporting calendar and a significant economic driver for the state.

The four-day Festival of Footy featured matches played at iconic venues – Adelaide Oval, Norwood Oval and Barossa Park, complemented by a packed schedule of entertainment, community events and fan experiences throughout Adelaide and its surrounding regions.

The event provided a platform for hotels, restaurants, bars and other venues throughout the state to showcase SA to the nation.

Premier Peter Malinauskas said Gather Round has once again proven to be far more than just a sporting event.

“It continues to exceed expectations and these record passenger numbers are further proof of the enormous economic and tourism benefits this magnificent event delivers for South Australia,” he said.

“Thousands upon thousands of interstate visitors travelled to South Australia to experience our state, filling our hotels, supporting local businesses and showcasing Adelaide and regional South Australia to a national audience.”

Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox said this is a fantastic result for Adelaide Airport and its customers.

“The record was achieved on the back of strong domestic and international growth, and demonstrates how major events such as AFL Gather Round provide significant benefits for aviation, tourism and the wider economy,” he said.

“It’s all the more remarkable given the significant geopolitical uncertainty and the resultant suspension of Emirates and Qatar Airways services at the time.”