February 16, 2025
Melbourne Airport Eyes International Terminal Expansion

Melbourne Airport Eyes International Terminal Expansion

Melbourne Airport is considering plans for an expanded international terminal amid an unprecedented rise in international seat capacity.
rener of expanded Melbourne Airport international terminal
Image Credit: Melbourne Airport

Melbourne Airport is finalizing plans for a significant expansion of its international terminal, following extensive consultations with airlines over the past year.

The project aims to boost terminal capacity and enhance the passenger experience at what has become one of Australia’s most crucial aviation gateways.

As the primary airport serving Victoria’s capital city, Melbourne Airport plays a vital role in connecting Australia to major destinations across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Rise in International Seat Capacity


The expansion plans come as the airport achieved record-breaking international traffic, with over 1.1 million international travelers passing through in December alone.

As Australia’s largest round-the-clock airport, Melbourne is experiencing unprecedented international seat capacity, reaching 113% of pre-pandemic levels, which is straining current facilities.

The airport’s strategic location and 24-hour operations make it particularly attractive to international carriers, especially those from Asia seeking convenient departure and arrival slots.

International airlines, which provide 72% of Victoria’s international seat capacity, recognize both the existing limitations and the urgent need for growth. The airport currently serves over 35 international airlines connecting Melbourne to more than 40 international destinations directly.

Expanded International Satellite Terminal


The planned expansion will become possible once the airport completes its new elevated road network in 2026. This will enable enlargement of international check-in areas and baggage claim facilities.

This infrastructure upgrade is crucial for maintaining Melbourne’s competitive edge against other major Australian airports, particularly Sydney and Brisbane, which are also undertaking significant development programs.

Discussions are underway regarding an expanded international satellite terminal that would offer additional airline lounges, retail spaces, passenger waiting areas, and five new widebody gates.

These improvements are essential for accommodating the next generation of aircraft, including the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which are increasingly common on long-haul routes to Melbourne.

Simultaneously, the airport is investing $500 million in a cutting-edge tote-based baggage system, which will enable flexible check-in times and early bag storage.

Aerial view of Melbourne Airport.
Photo Credit: Melbourne Airport

Melbourne Airport Perspective


Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus emphasized the urgency of these developments. “With record-breaking international passenger numbers and Melbourne’s growing population, we must expand our infrastructure accordingly.”

“Our international terminal frequently experiences congestion, particularly in arrivals, clearly indicating the need for more space.”

“We’re actively engaging with our international carriers to create solutions that benefit both airlines and travelers,” Argus continued. “The baggage system upgrade marks the beginning of our ambitious terminal expansion project.”

The planned improvements include additional gates, aircraft parking stands, expanded check-in facilities, and a larger baggage reclaim area.

Combined with the upcoming third runway, these enhancements will allow airlines to increase peak-time flights, offering more options for both passengers and Victorian exporters. The third runway project, in particular, will significantly boost the airport’s capacity to handle international flights during peak periods.

An aircraft lands at Melbourne Airport on a misty day.
Photo Credit: Melbourne Airport

Conclusion


The airport aims to finalize expansion plans by mid-2024, with construction set to begin after completing essential infrastructure projects. This marks the first major international terminal expansion since 2011, when the airport added five gates and 41,000 square meters of space.

 As Melbourne continues to grow as a global city and major tourist destination, these improvements will be crucial for maintaining the airport’s position as one of Australia’s premier international gateways.

Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.

Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!

Facebook
Twitter (X)
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit
WhatsApp
Email
Threads

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *