Melbourne Airport (MEL)

There are four airports in and around Melbourne city including Melbourne International Airport (MEL), Avalon Airport (AVV), Essendon Airport (MEB) and Moorabbin Airport (MBW). When you arrive in Melbourne or depart from the city, you will use either the Melbourne Airport or Avalon Airport. However, among the four, Melbourne International Airport also called Melbourne Tullamarine Airport is the major airport of the city catering to all international and domestic air traffic.

Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL)

Melbourne is Australia's mecca for all things trendy and tasty. Often referred to as the "Cultural Capital of Australia”, this is a high-spirited city that captivates visitors in every aspect of tourism including sightseeing, activities, shopping and food. It has earned a reputation for its dynamic lifestyle, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and four-seasons-in-a-day kind of weather.

Just as you land in the city, you will get a hint of the city's liveliness right at the Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL). The airport’s commitment to providing a seamless and enjoyable travel experience, along with its dedication to sustainability, makes it a favoured choice for both domestic and international travellers visiting Melbourne and Victoria. Melbourne Airport is known for its efficiency in processing passengers, both for domestic and international flights. The airport's well-organised layout and modern facilities help streamline the check-in, security, and baggage handling processes. The airport is committed to sustainability and has implemented various eco-friendly measures, including renewable energy sources, waste reduction programs, and water-saving initiatives. It is a vital transportation hub connecting the city to domestic and international destinations with all the flights to Melbourne. The airport plays a significant role in Victoria's economy, facilitating tourism, trade, and business connections.

Melbourne Airport is a crucial transportation hub connecting Melbourne to the rest of the world and Australia. With its modern amenities and focus on sustainability, it provides a convenient and efficient travel experience for millions of passengers each year.

  • The airport is located at a distance of approximately 23 km from Melbourne's central business district.
  • It allows round-the-clock arrival and departure throughout the year.
  • The airport boasts four passenger terminals, each designed to cater to specific types of flights.

Two smaller airports in Melbourne are Essendon Airport and Moorabbin Airport.  These airports mainly operate as commercial airports or as departure points for joyrides and sightseeing flights. Plan your trip to Melbourne Airport by booking your flights to Melbourne from IndiGo's official website or mobile app. From check-in details to airport facilities and departures, everything will be sorted seamlessly.

Read news: Fly from India to Australia with more seamless connectivity; IndiGo and Qantas Airways to extend codeshare partnership

How to reach Melbourne Airport?

  • By bus: Regular bus services operate between Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Southern Cross Railway Station in Melbourne’s city centre. SkyBus runs every 10 minutes during peak times and you do not need to book in advance. If you wish, you can buy online tickets in advance.
  • By taxi: Taxis are available right outside the Melbourne Airport terminals with taxi queuing areas. Taxis are registered and operate within strict guidelines. 
  • By car: The distance between the Melbourne Airport and the city centre is approximately 23 km. You can rent a car to reach the airport. There are parking facilities available for short-term and long-term parking. You can book a rental car in advance or arrange one upon arrival at the airport.

Melbourne Airport details - IATA, Pin code, and address

Melbourne Airport is conveniently located just 23 km northwest of Melbourne's city centre, making it easily accessible by various transportation options, including buses, taxis, shuttles, and the SkyBus express service. 

  • Address/ Location - Arrival Dr, Melbourne Airport VIC 3045, Australia
  • IATA code - MEL
  • Airport pin code - 3045
  • Distance from the city centre - 23 km
  • Flight tracker - Check your flight status for real-time updates

Terminal Information

Melbourne Tullamarine Airport has four terminals - three domestic and one international. The terminals are located close to each other. The international terminal, T2, handles overseas travel, connecting Melbourne to major cities worldwide. The domestic terminals (T1, T3, and T4) manage domestic flights, with airlines offering a comprehensive network of routes across Australia.

terminal

Barcelona Airport Facilities

Melbourne Airport is renowned for its modern facilities and excellent passenger experience. You can enjoy the following facilities at the airport:

Special Assistance
Passenger Information
Retail & Food Outlets
Security
Accessibility Assistance
Banking
Foreign Exchange
ATMs
Medical
Lost Property

Airport lounge information

Melbourne Airport offers premium lounges for travellers who seek comfort and relaxation before their flights. These lounges provide complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. The lounge at Melbourne Airport includes membership lounges, open access lounges, the house by aspire lounge and marhaba lounge.

  • Open Access Lounges: Melbourne Airport offers three lounges within T2 international departures where Open Access is available. You need to book in advance or pay on the day of your travel. All Open Access Lounges offer the modern convenience you require, whether travelling for business or leisure.
  • The House by Aspire Lounge: The House by Aspire Lounge is located in T2 on the third floor at the airport. You can eat, drink and relax before your flight. With delicious seasonal menus, self-serve dishes and barista-made coffees, all are included in the price of entry.
  • Marhaba Lounge: Marhaba Lounge is located at T2 departures, between gates 9 and 11. You can relax in a spacious room and enjoy all the amenities including free WiFi, male and female showers, massage chairs and departure screens.
  • Plaza Premium Lounge: Located at the international departures, terminal 2, near gate 9, airline lounge area, Plaza Premium Lounge is one of the world’s largest award-winning independent lounges where you can relax and unwind in comfort as you begin your journey.

Things to do at airport

Melbourne Tullamarine Airport offers a variety of activities and amenities to keep travellers entertained and comfortable during their time at the airport. Here are some things to do at Melbourne Airport:

  • Explore the numerous shops and boutiques at the airport. From duty-free stores to fashion outlets and souvenir shops, you can find a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, and local Australian items.
  • Melbourne Airport boasts a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or a snack. Experience international cuisine or savour Australian specialities.
  • If you have access to an airport lounge, take advantage of the comfortable seating and complimentary refreshments.
  • Melbourne Airport features various art installations and exhibits that showcase local and international artists. These provide a cultural and aesthetic experience for travellers.
  • If you're travelling with children, let them burn off some energy at the airport's dedicated play areas. These spaces are designed to keep kids entertained and engaged.
  • Unwind with a massage or spa treatment available at some of the airport's lounges or wellness centres.
  • Stay connected with free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport, making it easy to catch up on work, communicate with loved ones, or simply browse the internet.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the runway and aircraft from the airport's viewing decks. It's a great spot for watching plane takeoffs and landings.
  • Melbourne Airport has a unique feature, the "Read & Return" library, where you can borrow a book to read during your flight and return it on your way out.
  • Some lounges offer fitness facilities, allowing you to squeeze in a workout before your flight.

Melbourne Airport is close to the city, so if you have a long layover, you can also consider taking a short trip to Melbourne to explore its many attractions and return to the airport in time for your next flight.

Hotels near Melbourne Airport

You can find several hotels located near the Melbourne Airport where you can plan your stay. 

  • Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport: 10/14 Centre Rd, Melbourne Airport VIC 3045, Australia
  • Park Royal Melbourne Airport: Melbourne Airport, Arrival Dr, Tullamarine VIC 3045, Australia
  • Mantra Melbourne Airport: 2 Trade Park Dr, Tullamarine VIC 3043, Australia
  • Quest Melbourne Airport: 20 Annandale Rd, Melbourne Airport VIC 3045, Australia

Places to visit near Melbourne airport

Melbourne Airport, also known as Tullamarine Airport, is conveniently located near a variety of attractions and places of interest in Melbourne and the surrounding areas. Whether you have a layover or a few hours to spare before your next flight, here are some places to visit near Melbourne Airport.

  • URBNSURF Park: URBNSURF Park is Australia's first surf park, located at a distance of 2.9 km from the airport. It offers an exhilarating inland surfing experience with customisable waves for surfers of all levels, from beginners to experts. This innovative attraction boasts a state-of-the-art lagoon, where surfers can catch perfect waves year-round. The park provides equipment rental, expert coaching, and a laid-back beach atmosphere with food and drinks. It's a fantastic place for both locals and tourists to enjoy the thrill of surfing in a controlled environment, making it accessible to all who want to ride the waves, regardless of their experience.
  • Living Legends: Living Legends is a unique and revered institution located at a distance of 4 km from the Melbourne Airport. This living museum is home to retired champion racehorses. Visitors can meet and interact with these iconic horses, including the likes of Fields of Omagh and Apache Cat. Besides, Living Legends offers educational programmes, guided tours, and a chance to immerse oneself in the rich history of Australian racing. It stands as a testament to the nation's racing heritage and its commitment to the welfare of these living treasures.
  • Jump N’ Jiggle: Jump N' Jiggle is a fun-filled family entertainment centre located about 4 km from the airport where children can unleash their energy and imagination. This indoor playground offers a safe and engaging environment filled with inflatable slides, obstacle courses, bounce houses, and arcade games. Parents can relax in a comfortable seating area while their children explore and enjoy exciting adventures.

Before booking your Melbourne flight ticket, consider the time you have available and your transportation options to plan your visit to these places near Melbourne Airport. Keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions, so it's a good idea to check distances and plan accordingly.

Visa and immigration

To visit this vast and diverse country located in the southern hemisphere, Indians require an Australia visa. You can apply for various Australian visas from India, such as tourist visa (subclass 600), which allows leisure and family visits, while students can pursue their education with the student visa (subclass 500). To apply for an Australian visa, you need to create an account on the ImmiAccount, and apply for a new visa application for Australia. 

FAQs about Melbourne Airport

How far is Melbourne Airport located from the city centre?

Melbourne Airport, which is also called Tullamarine Airport is located approximately 23 kilometres from the city centre.

How many terminals does Melbourne Airport have?

Melbourne Airport has four terminals. Terminal 2 consists of international flights, whereas, terminal 1 has domestic flights operated by Qantas, and terminal 3 has flights operated by Virgin Australia and Regional Express (Rex). Terminal 4 has flights operated by low-cost carriers like Jetstar and Tigerair.

Does Melbourne Airport offer free Wi-Fi?

Yes, Melbourne Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout all terminals.

Is there a train link to Melbourne Airport?

Currently, there are no direct trains linking the city with the airport. However, SkyBus offers services from major areas to the airport.

How to get to the airport from Melbourne?

You can take a cab or bus to the Melbourne Airport. Alternatively, you can also choose to take the SkyBus which offers direct shuttle service.

What are the hotels near Melbourne Airport?

There are several hotel options near the Melbourne Airport each offering comfortable rooms. Some of the ideal hotels near Melbourne Airport are ParkRoyal and Holiday Inn.

Can I store my luggage at Melbourne Airport?

Yes, there are luggage storage facilities at Melbourne Airport Terminal 2 operated by SmarteCarte.

How to transfer between terminals at Melbourne Airport?

Transferring between terminals at Melbourne Airport is easy. Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are connected by walkways, whereas, terminal 4 is slightly further walk from the rest of the terminals.

Are there shuttle services between terminals at Melbourne Airport?

No, there are no shuttle bus services between terminals.

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