Dozens of venomous snakes have been removed from Alice Springs Airport in recent weeks, including from passenger check-in areas, departure gates, staff offices and the Qantas lounge. Airport Development Group, which operates the Northern Territory facility, is monitoring areas of concern as rising temperatures drive increased snake activity. No snake-related injuries or flight disruptions have been reported.
Snake catcher Rex Neindorf of the Alice Springs Reptile Centre has attended the airport several times, removing both whip snakes and highly venomous western brown snakes. Two western browns were found inside the terminal—one in a public passenger area and another in a staff office. The reported total is not an official count, but reflects recent callouts and sightings.
ADG describes the activity as seasonal, with snakes seeking cooler locations as temperatures rise. Severe flash flooding in the area may also have contributed to increased sightings. The operator is using warning signs, monitoring locations where snakes are more likely to appear and calling Neindorf for professional removal and relocation.
Neindorf has provided snake-safety training to airport employees. ADG also operates Darwin and Tennant Creek airports, although the reported incidents are confined to Alice Springs. Passengers and staff are advised to keep away from any snake and alert airport personnel rather than attempting to handle it.