It comes after Qatar Airways announced it would service international flights to Canberra Airport from 2018.

A one-way flight to London from Canberra would take about 27 hours and for about $1300, economy passengers can travel return to Dublin, Paris and various other European cities.

Wagga local Clint Uden said the new terminal will make it easier for people travelling overseas and thinks the benefits for the region could be huge.

“I think it’s a terrific thing for Wagga and the surrounding region,” he said.

“It will save us getting a flight or driving to Sydney or Melbourne airports (when travelling), and I think it will have all sorts of potential benefits to tourism and economics of the wider region.”

The daily service to Canberra on Qatar would begin on February 12 while the first Canberra Doha flight would run on February 13.

The new terminal covers more than 55,000 square metres and includes 3300 car parking spaces, according to airport managing director Stephen Byron.

“All car parks can be used for short stays, long stays and weekends,” he said.

“You can park in one of two multi-level car parks for up to 24 hours, for $30. Two day covered parking costs $60.

“Four days costs $120. After that, add $15 a day extra, for each day up to 10 days and $7.50 extra a day for stays of more than 10 days.”

Travellers can save slightly more money by going the more affordable route and choosing to park their car outdoors.

Mr Byron said that passengers boarding international flights at Canberra would be treated to a business-class style departure lounge that has been fitted out with the latest gadgets and technology.

“We are breaking the rules here. Normally lounges like this are done by airlines for their VIP travellers,” he said.

“We are doing it for every passenger who travels internationally, in and out of Canberra.

“All or customers will be treated as club lounge members with the best of design, furnishings and amenities in the general public areas.