Melbourne Airport, also known as Tullamarine Airport, is the primary airport serving Melbourne, Victoria, and the second busiest airport in Australia. Located in Tullamarine, approximately 23 kilometers northwest of the Melbourne city center, the airport opened in 1970, replacing the older Essendon Airport as the city's main commercial aviation facility. Melbourne Airport handles over 37 million passengers annually across four terminals. Terminal 1 serves international flights for Qantas and select airlines, Terminal 2 handles domestic services for Virgin Australia, Rex Airlines, and others, Terminal 3 is the Qantas domestic terminal, and Terminal 4 serves Jetstar and other low-cost domestic carriers. The airport is a major hub for Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia. Unlike most major Australian cities, Melbourne does not have a rail link to its airport, though one has been approved and is in the planning stages. The primary ground transportation option is the SkyBus express coach service, which connects the airport to Southern Cross Station in the city center in approximately 30 minutes. Melbourne Airport has two parallel runways and operates 24 hours a day without a curfew, giving it a significant operational advantage over Sydney Airport for late-night and early-morning services. The airport plays a vital role as an international gateway, with extensive nonstop connections to Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific Islands, and has seen strong growth in routes to Southeast Asian destinations in recent years.

Aviation Terms

Airfield Lighting (AGL) Airport Category Airport Elevation (ELEV) Airport Fire Station (ARFF) Airport Lounge Airport Reference Point (ARP) Apron Automated Passport Control (APC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Melbourne Airport to the city center?

The SkyBus express shuttle runs from Melbourne Airport to Southern Cross Station in the CBD every 10 minutes, taking about 30 minutes and costing AUD 19.75 one-way. Melbourne Airport does not have a rail connection, making it unique among major Australian airports. Taxis and ride-shares cost approximately AUD 55-75 for the 23 km trip. A Suburban Rail Loop connection is planned for the future.

How many terminals does Melbourne Airport have?

Melbourne Airport has four terminals. Terminal 1 handles international flights (Qantas), Terminal 2 serves international carriers (Emirates, Singapore Airlines, etc.), Terminal 3 is for Qantas domestic, and Terminal 4 handles Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Rex. All terminals are connected and accessible by walking.

What is notable about Melbourne Airport?

MEL is Australia's second-busiest airport and the primary gateway to Victoria. It is the only major airport in Australia without a rail link to the city, relying instead on the efficient SkyBus service. The airport features a curfew-free operation, meaning flights can arrive and depart 24 hours a day, unlike Sydney Airport which has a night curfew.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Melbourne Airport?

Yes, MEL provides free Wi-Fi throughout all terminals. The network offers 30 minutes of high-speed access and unlimited standard-speed access. The international terminals feature extensive duty-free shopping and Australian-themed retailers selling local wines, chocolates, and souvenirs.

Which airlines have a hub at Melbourne Airport?

Qantas uses MEL as a major domestic hub from Terminal 3, with international services from Terminal 1. Jetstar, Qantas's low-cost subsidiary, has its headquarters and primary base at Melbourne. Virgin Australia also has significant operations. International carriers including Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and United serve the airport extensively.