AN EXTRA five gates will be added to Melbourne Airport’s international terminal as part of its $4.5 billion expansion.
The extra gates will provide carriers the opportunity to increase the number of daily services to key destinations, while new routes to and from the airport may also open up.
There are also expansions coming to the check-in and baggage reclaim halls, with improved tech to ensure a faster process when entering and exiting the terminal.
Other upgrades include new retail facilities, as well as refined lounge and waiting areas.
MEL’s upgrades coincide with the new third runway in 2031, set to be finished in, while neighbouring Avalon Airport outside Geelong is also being renovated.
CEO of Melbourne Airport, Lorie Argus said that the airport has been “working collaboratively with the airlines to ensure these plans meet their needs” as well as work with the Victorian State Government so the airport can “facilitate more services and secure thousands of jobs around the state”.
In addition, Victoria’s assistant minister for citizenship, customs and multicultural affairs, Julian Hill, said that the expansion will compliment the state’s growing tourism industry as “demand for domestic and international travel at Melbourne Airport is growing rapidly”.
The first stage of the expansion is set for a September completion with the introduction of new pick-up and drop-off zones.
