The base was used to conduct pilot training and was considered an important strategic asset in the defence of the Illawarra, particularly the steelworks at Port Kembla.

From 1952, South Coast Airways operated a milk run between Sydney and Melbourne with intermediate stops in Wollongong (Albion Park), Bairnsdale and Sale.

The company would later relocate operations to Sydney, but Shellharbour Airport remained an important facility for pilot training and aircraft maintenance into the 1980s.

A displaced threshold reduces the available landing distance on runway 34 by 176 m (577 ft) to allow aircraft to clear high terrain along the approach path.

16/34 is equipped with pilot activated low intensity runway lighting, as well as precision approach path indicator systems to assist with landings under varying conditions.

[1] Despite the length of the runway being sufficient for operating large passenger jets such as the Boeing 737, the pavements are currently only suitable for aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight not exceeding 25,000 kg (55,116 lb).

[11] This, as well as environmental and noise issues, limits the potential of Shellharbour Airport as a major gateway for commercial airline operations despite its proximity to Sydney.

Previously, commencing on 30 October 2017, JetGo became the first airline to operate regular passenger services from Wollongong airport since the termination of QantasLink flights in 2008.

Jetgo provided daily flights to Melbourne and Brisbane using Embraer ERJ regional jets of 36 to 50 seats capacity, until the airline went out of business on 1 June 2018.

A regular rail service is available at Albion Park railway station, 900 metres from the passenger terminal, on the South Coast Line.