Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Melbourne Airport (MEL) is the second-busiest aviation hub in Oceania. Specifically, it serves as the primary international gateway for Melbourne and the surrounding areas. In addition to being the second busiest airport in Oceania, it is famous for its single-terminal precinct, which makes transferring between flights much faster and easier. It’s important to know that Melbourne Airport operates 24 hours a day with no curfew. This guide helps passengers navigate terminals, find dining options, arrange parking, and access essential airport services.

Specifically, this guide highlights everything about the Melbourne Airport, including the best hidden gems within the terminals, from luxury shopping in T2 to the fastest ways to reach the city center. So, let’s dive in!

Quick Information About the Melbourne Airport

You can refer to the Melbourne Airport directory below to see how easily you can navigate the terminal. Due to the simple, categorized layout, the check-in process is very efficient. This way, you can avoid any confusion and stay focused on enjoying every moment of your upcoming trip.

Category	Details
Name of the Airport	Melbourne Airport
Airport Type	Public
Serves	Melbourne
Location	Melbourne Airport, Victoria, Australia
ICAO Code	YMML
IATA Code	MEL
Opened	1 July 1970
Hub for	QantasVirgin Australia
Operating base for	JetStarRex Airlines
Owned & Operated By	Australia Pacific Airports Corporation (APAC)
Terminals	4 (68 gates: 53 domestic and 15 international)
Airlines	Approx 46
Destinations	73 destinations across 21 countries
Address	Melbourne Airport Locked Bag 16, Tullamarine VIC 3043
Website	https://www.melbourneairport.com.au/

What are the Main Airlines Flying from Melbourne Airport?

As a significant global gateway, Melbourne Airport hosts over 40 airlines. It connects travelers to numerous international destinations with efficiency and world-class service. Here are some airlines at Melbourne Airport. For more information, you may visit our Melbourne Airport airlines page. 

• Air Asia 
• Air New Zealand 
• Air China 
• Air India 
• Air Vanuatu 
• Batik Air 
• Cathay Pacific 
• China Eastern Airlines
• China Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• Fiji Airways 
• Etihad Airways 
• Japan Airlines
• Hong Kong Airlines
• LATAM Airlines
• Philippine Airlines
• Malaysia Airlines
• Qatar Airways 
• Scoot 
• Singapore Airlines 
• Thai Airways 
• United Airlines 
• Turkish Airlines
• Vietnam Airlines
• Xiamen Airlines 

What are the Different Terminals at Melbourne Airport?

Melbourne Airport features 4 terminals, 68 gates, including 53 domestic and 15 international, plus five freighter positions. The terminal numbering system has been in use since July 2005.

Terminal 1:
Terminal 1 serves Qantas and QantasLink domestic flights, offering check-in, lounges, shops, dining, and 16 aerobridge bays. Initially opened in 1970, it was extensively upgraded by 1999.

Terminal 2:
Terminal 2 is Melbourne Airport’s main international terminal, featuring 20 aerobridge gates, airline lounges, Indigenous artworks, and a major expansion completed in 2012 to support growing long-haul traffic.

Terminal 3:
Terminal 3 houses Virgin Australia domestic services, offering aerobridge and non-aerobridge bays, airline lounges, and modern facilities. Formerly Ansett’s terminal, it was renovated after 2001.

Terminal 4:
Terminal 4 is Melbourne Airport’s low-cost terminal, designed for budget airlines with simplified facilities. Initially built for Virgin Blue, it was refurbished in 2007 following international budget-terminal models.

What are the Best Dining Options at Melbourne Airport?

To start your trip right, visit one of the many restaurants at Melbourne Airport located throughout the terminals. Because the airport caters to all types of travelers, you can choose between a speedy bite or a full-service dinner. Ultimately, there is a dining option at MEL Airport for every budget and preference.

• AFL Kitchen & Bar (6 am-9 pm)
• Brunetti Classico (3 locations)
• Grill’d Healthy Burgers (6:30 am-11 pm) 
• Pickett’s Deli & Rotisserie (24 hours) 
• Stomping Ground Brewery (6:30 am-8:30 pm)
• Airo Restaurant- ParkRoyal (11:30 am- 9:30 pm) 
• Axil Coffee Roasters (4:45 am- 9 pm) 
• Bà Xã (6 am- 12 am)
• Bar Pulpo by Movida (6 am- 11:30 pm) 
• Boccata Restaurant & Wine Bar (Multiple sessions) 
• Boost Juice (2 locations) 
• Bridge Road Brewers (6 am- 9 pm) 
• Cafe Sol (2:30 am- 10:30 pm) 
• Daniel’s Donuts (4:30 am- 10:30 pm) 
• EARL Canteen (5:30 am- 8:30 pm) 
• Flat Chat Espresso & Bar (6 am- 5:30 pm) 
• Go! Espresso and Bar (6:30 am- 8:30 pm) 
• Gusto Pasta Bar (4 am- 9 pm) 
• Hanna’s Cafe (6 am- 5:30 pm) 
• Hudson’s Coffee (24 hours) 
• Hungry Jack’s (2 locations) 
• Icons Victoria (4:30 am- 9:30 pm) 
• Little Lygon (6 am- 8 pm) 
• Liv Eat Healthy Eating (4:30 am- 9:30 pm) 
• McDonald’s (2 locations) 
• Mezze Za Za (7 am- 8:30 pm) 
• Mobo Moga (6 am- 9 pm) 
• Nooodles (2 locations) 
• Quikshots (4:30 am- 8:30 pm) 
• Roll’d Vietnamese (6 am- 9 pm) 
• Rustica (4:30 am- 7:30 pm) 
• Salsas Fresh Mex (5:30 am- 9 pm) 
• Schnitz (5 am- 10 pm)
• Small Holdings (6 am- 3 pm, currently closed) 
• Soul Origin (4 am- 10 pm) 
• ST. ALi (2 locations)
• Subway (4 am- 11 pm) 
• Sushi Jiro (2 locations) 
• Sushi Sushi (5 am- 8 pm) 
• The Chocolate Box (2 locations) 
• The Grace (6 am- 9 pm) 
• The Local Taphouse (6:30 am- 8:30 pm)
• Think Asia (8 am- 9:30 pm) 
• Two Johns Taphouse (2 locations) 
• Urban Provodore (6 am- 10 pm)
• Veneziano Coffee Roasters (4:30 am- 9 pm) 

What Shopping Options does Melbourne Airport Offer?

You can explore the incredible shops at MEL Airport, where you will find world-class brands like Tiffany & Co., MECCA, and Lotte Duty Free. Whether you want luxury fashion or local Australian gifts, Melbourne offers a premium shopping experience.

1. Terminal 1: 

• WH Smith Australia (14 locations)- Books, news, confectionery, food, drinks, and travel accessories
  
• Melbourne Airport Health Clinic (Currently closed)- Patient-centred healthcare services
  
• The Chocolate Box (2 locations)- Premium Australian chocolates, gift boxes, and confectionery
  

2. Terminal 2:

• WH Smith Australia (14 locations)- Books, news, confectionery, and travel essentials
  
• Aesop (9 am- 5 pm, currently closed)- Luxury skin, hair, and body care products
  
• Amcal+ Express Pharmacy (6 am- 11 pm)- Prescriptions, travel medicines, and health advice
  
• Australian Produce Store (5:30 am- 12:30 am)- Australian-made gifts, souvenirs, and produce
  
• Australian Way (5:30 am- 12 am)- Authentic Australian gifts and locally inspired products
  
• Lotte Duty Free (4 locations)- Duty-free beauty, gifts, and souvenirs
  
• Rolling Luggage (2 locations)- Luggage, backpacks, and travel accessories
  
• Sunglass Hut (2 locations)- Designer sunglasses
  
• The Melbourne Store (6 am- 12 am)- Melbourne and Victoria-themed gifts and souvenirs
  

3. Terminal 3:

• WH Smith Australia (14 locations)- Books, news, confectionery, and travel accessories
  
• Oxford Shop (5 am- 9 pm)- Australian fashion for men and women
   
• The Chocolate Box (2 locations)- Chocolate gifts, hampers, and confectionery

4. Terminal 4:

• WH Smith Australia (14 locations)- Books, news, snacks, and travel essentials
  
• Airport Pharmacy (6 am- 9 pm)- Health, beauty, skincare, and fragrances
  
• LEGO® Store (5:30 am- 9:30 pm)- LEGO toys, brick sets, and kids’ gifts
  
• MECCA (6 am- 9 pm)- Global beauty brands, makeup, and skincare
  
• Mimco (6 am- 9 pm)- Fashion accessories and Australian-designed styles
  
• Peter Alexander (6 am-9 pm)- Sleepwear for men, women, and kids
   
• Rip Curl (5 am- 11 pm)- Surf-inspired fashion and accessories
  
• Sunglass Hut (2 locations)- Designer sunglasses
  

Which Passenger Services Can You Find at Melbourne Airport?

The extensive services at MEL Airport ensure a seamless journey. Their dedicated staff maintains modern facilities that prioritize your comfort and speed, guiding you easily from arrival to departure.

1. Showers:

Shower facilities are available in Terminal 2 (T2) for international travelers. However, towel rental services are not provided, so passengers should bring their own towels.

2. Wheelchair & Special Assistance:

You can securea wheelchair and special assistance at MEL Airport through the official contact page before flying. This early preparation enables the airport team to provide seamless support as you navigate the terminals to your flight. If you require a wheelchair, you may contact the Melbourne Airport Assist before you acquire your boarding pass. 

The staff are available from 6 am to 10:00 pm. You can even contact Melbourne Airport after-hours help, with the office open from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. You may even contact your respective airline after you’ve got your boarding pass.

3. Foreign Currency Services:

You should look for an ATM to handle your financial needs and access currency exchange services at MEL Airport. Prosegur and Travelex operate exchange counters and multi-currency machines across Terminal 2, allowing travelers to conveniently purchase foreign currency before their flights. 

If you have opted for Prosegur Change to exchange your currency, you will enjoy fascinating rates on more than 50 foreign currencies. You get a 0% commission for all orders made online. Prosegur Change has 6 branches in all at the Melbourne Airport, at both the arrivals as well as departures levels. 

4. Lost Property:

You must head to the T2 Arrivals ground floor to locate the Visitor Information Desk for lost items. Their staff manages these inquiries daily, ensuring you can pick up your belongings between 8 am and 8 pm once you have made an arrangement. The lost and found desk from functions daily from 4:00 -00:00 throughout the week, inclusive of all public holidays. For any items lost on the aircraft, the respective airline must be notified.

5. Prayer Rooms:

Melbourne Airport provides two 24/7 multi-denominational prayer rooms to accommodate diverse spiritual needs. You can find the first location on the ground level, situated conveniently between Terminals 2 and 3. Additionally, travelers who have already gone through security can access a second quiet space airside in Terminal 2, located directly opposite Cafe Sol.

6. Bag Wrapping Services:

You can access secure bag wrapping in the Terminal 2 check-in area to better protect your possessions. This process helps passengers protect their luggage before international travel, ensuring greater security and complete peace of mind during long flights.

7. ATMs & Cash Withdrawal:

Travelers can quickly locate an ATM at MEL Airport within any terminal building. AUD-only machines are distributed across T1, T2, T3, and T4 in both landside and airside locations, facilitating seamless cash withdrawals during your journey.

8. Medical Centre:

Melbourne Airport Health and Medical Centre is located in T1, Level 1, and provides medical services on weekdays, excluding weekends and public holidays. From Monday to Thursday, they remain open from 8:00 am to 4:00 am. On Fridays, the operation hours are from

9. Postbox Facility:

While no post office operates inside terminals, an Australia Post mailbox is available at the Transport hub’s ground floor, close to the terminal 4 car park area. 

10. Mobile Charging Stations:

Mobile charging stations at MEL Airport are available across international and domestic terminals. Travelers can also buy chargers from JB Hi-Fi, telecom stores, Tech2Go, and selected WH Smith outlets.

11. Pharmacy Services:

Pharmacies are available in Terminals 1, 2, and 4, offering medications, travel essentials, and health products, including Amcal pharmacy outlets in T2 and T4. At Amcal, you can get medicines for flu, allergies, and colds. They also provide you with electronic prescriptions. 

12. Free Wi-Fi:

You can easily access complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the public areas of Terminals 2, 3, and 4 at MEL Airport. However, please note that this specific network is unavailable in Terminal 1, as Qantas operates that section independently.

13. Smoking Areas:

Melbourne Airport restricts smoking to designated external areas. You cannot smoke within enclosed terminal buildings. Furthermore, signage clearly marks smoke-free entrances at T2, T3, and T4. Because government regulations and security protocols prevent transit passengers from exiting, there are no indoor facilities. Similarly, these rules apply to e-cigarettes.

Where Can You Park at Melbourne Airport?

Car parking at Melbourne Airport (MEL) is designed to suit every traveller, from budget flyers to those seeking premium convenience. This way, you can lock in the best rates and enjoy free amendments or cancellations up to two hours before arrival. Moreover, online bookings also come with no booking or credit card fees, a generous two-hour grace period for longer stays, and faster entry and exit using QR codes.

1. Value Car Park:

The Value Car Park offers affordable rates and 24/7 shuttles, making it the perfect budget choice for any traveler.  You may want a short-term or long-term stay. This parking option suits everyone’s needs. Prices start from $14 per day when booked online.

2. Value Express:

Value Express is a perfect choice during the busy holiday periods. When you reach the value car park, hand over your keys, and the officials there will help you park. This saves your time. Similarly, they’ll get your car back upon your return. You will only get this service during the school holiday season. To get the best available rates, book online. The charge is around $21 a day. There is a 24/7 shuttle service every 15 minutes to the terminal. 

3. Terminal Car Park:

Terminal Car Parks provide direct terminal access and accessible spaces. Additionally, booking online offers cheaper rates for short-term stays. Drive-up rates start from $54 per day at T4 and $59 per day at T1-T3, while online bookings start from $49 per day.

4. Premium Valet:

Premium Valet at T1-T3 offers effortless parking from $84. Notably, this 24/7 service excludes Qantas Valet. The people in charge there will park your car and give it back to you when you return. They have 24/7 customer service, making communication easier and more seamless. 

5. Premium Self Park:

Premium Self Park provides quick, undercover terminal access at T1-T4. You can enjoy easy QR entry for as low as $84 per day.

6. Qantas Valet:

Qantas Valet offers premium undercover parking and cleaning on Level 1. Simply drive up to earn points and enjoy. You will find the Qantas Valet parking at all three terminals from 5:00 am 1 am. You may call Qantas Valet at +61 (3) 8336 4284 for more details. 

Which Airport Lounges Are Open at Melbourne Airport?

Melbourne Airport offers a wide range of lounges across domestic and international terminals. Moreover, certain airlines operate dedicated VIP lounges at MEL Airport for eligible passengers, so it’s best to contact your airline directly to confirm access and availability. You can also use the Melbourne airport map to locate lounges throughout the terminals easily.

1. Open Access Lounges (3 Locations):

These lounges are open to all travelers for a fee and are available in the international terminal.

• The House by Aspire Lounge:
  Open Mon & Thu: 5:30 AM- 5:00 AM; Tue, Wed, Fri & Sun: 5:30 AM- 12:45 AM.
  Located near Gate 35, close to the food court and information desk.
  
• Marhaba Lounge:
  Open 24/7.
  Located in Terminal 2 Departures, between Gates 9 and 11, Level 3.
  
• Plaza Premium Lounge:
  Open daily from 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
  Located in Terminal 2 Departures, near Gate 9.
  

2. Membership Lounges (12 Locations):

Available in both domestic and international terminals, these lounges are mainly for airline loyalty members, premium ticket holders, and selected credit card users. Some domestic lounges include Virgin Australia, Qantas Club, REX Lounge, Silver Kris Lounge, and others. 

Which Transportation Services Connect Melbourne Airport (MEL)?

Melbourne Airport excels at providing cost-effective public transport. Because the transportation options at MEL Airport are so clearly organized, travelers can easily choose between the options mentioned below;

1. Car Rentals:

Travelers can easily compare and book vehicles onsite. Major providers such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Enterprise, Hertz, and Sixt have rental desks at MEL airport.

2. Bus Services:

Various bus operators connect the airport to the city and beyond. Public buses, Skybus, and regional charters transport passengers to the Melbourne CBD and surrounding areas every day.

3. Rideshare:

Passengers can use app-based transport. These zones near all terminals allow for quick and convenient rideshare pick-ups and drop-offs.

4. Taxis:

For a more direct route, official taxis wait at ranks outside every terminal. These drivers typically deliver passengers to the Melbourne CBD in about thirty minutes.

5. Chauffeur Services:

For those seeking extra comfort, pre-booked chauffeurs meet travelers at designated terminal points. These drivers provide personalized transfers to any destination across the city or regional Victoria. Moreover, the fees are predecided, and the vehicle doesn’t have a meter. 

6. Bikes & Motorbikes:

MEL airport accommodates two-wheeled vehicles. Riders can find motorcycle parking in all airport car parks, with specific spots located near Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

Melbourne Airport Security Wait Times:

Melbourne airport security wait times change quickly, often reaching 30 to 45 minutes during busy mornings and evenings. To stay relaxed, get there two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international flights. If your ride needs extra time, remember that a 20-minute free wait zone is available. Checking ahead makes your screening process much easier. To know more about their pick-up or drop-off schedules, check their official website. 

Melbourne Airport (MEL) Interactive Map:

The Melbourne Airport Interactive Map is your go-to digital assistant for exploring the airport. Use it to instantly find check-in counters and gates across all terminals. Beyond directions, it helps you discover lounges, cafes, and essential facilities like restrooms. If you are flying internationally, the 3D virtual tour of Terminal 2 gives you a clear view of your surroundings before you arrive.

Melbourne Airport (MEL) Contact Information:

For flight inquiries or service information, please contact the Melbourne Airport team. Using the provided contact info ensures you reach the correct department directly for the fastest possible resolution.

Call	+61 3 9297 1597
Email	community@melair.com.au
Website	https://www.melbourneairport.com.au/

Conclusion:

Melbourne Airport (MEL) serves as a premier 24/7 gateway, offering a streamlined single-terminal layout for effortless domestic and international transfers. The precinct prioritizes traveler convenience through premium lounges, diverse parking solutions, and integrated transport links. With a curated selection of high-end retail and dining, MEL ensures a reliable, world-class experience.

FAQs