Remote tropical airstrip and small terminal building at Snake Bay Airport in Milikapiti on Melville Island, Northern Territory

Airport

Snake Bay Airport (SNB)

Snake Bay Airport is a small regional gateway on Melville Island in Australia's Tiwi Islands, serving the community of Milikapiti. From here, travelers can continue by air to Darwin and nearby island communities such as Pularumpi.

Passengers

Luggage

About Snake Bay Airport

Snake Bay Airport is a small regional airport on the northern coast of Melville Island in Australia's Tiwi Islands. It serves the community of Milikapiti and provides an air link between the Tiwi Islands and Darwin, the main service centre for the region.

The airport has a single sealed runway, oriented 13/31, and handles light aircraft and regional passenger flights. Scheduled services connect Melville Island with Darwin, with onward links to other Tiwi Island communities. The facility is operated by the Tiwi Islands Regional Council.

Located roughly 113 km across the water from Darwin, the airport is reached primarily by air, with typical flight times of around 25 to 30 minutes. There is no road connection between Melville Island and the mainland, so air travel is the standard way for residents and visitors to reach the island.

Passenger facilities at Snake Bay Airport are simple and practical, including a waiting area and basic amenities. Visitors should plan transfers and supplies in advance, as dining, shopping and transport options around the small community of Milikapiti are limited.

Small terminal building and shaded apron at Snake Bay Airport on Melville Island in the Tiwi Islands, Northern Territory

Terminal Overview

Travelers walking beneath terminal signs inside an airport

Terminals

Snake Bay Airport operates through a single small passenger terminal serving domestic and regional flights. There are no separate international or Schengen terminal areas, and the facility handles flights to Darwin and nearby Tiwi Island communities.

Ground Transportation Services to and from Snake Bay Airport

Transfers

Arrange private transfers for arrivals at Snake Bay Airport to reach Milikapiti and nearby locations on Melville Island, or to connect with onward travel to Darwin.

Hourly Chauffeur

Book a chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel around Melville Island after landing at Snake Bay Airport, ideal for community visits, business trips and scheduled appointments.

Car Rental

Car rental options around Snake Bay Airport are limited, so check availability in advance if you plan to drive on Melville Island after your flight.

Bus & Group Transfers

Organize minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between Snake Bay Airport, Milikapiti and other locations across the Tiwi Islands.