Looking for a map of Melbourne Airport? You can download a full map here: Melbourne Airport Map (PDF) 3.30 MB
Melbourne Airport / Tullamarine Airport, Australia
Melbourne Airport (IATA: MEL, ICAO: YMML), a.k.a. Tullamarine Airport, consists of four terminals and is well-known for its world class facilities. It combines domestic and international terminals into one giant complex. Melbourne Airport is efficient in a fast-paced modern way and caters to more than 35 million passengers per year.
Other Airports in Melbourne
The main Melbourne airports are:
- Melbourne Airport (the major international/domestic airport)
- Avalon Airport (also an intertnational airport, but mainly servicing domestic routes)
- Essendon Fields Airport (the original home of international flights in Melbourne, now used for charter/commercial/general aviation)
- Moorabin Airport (mainly general aviation for light aircraft)
- Lilydale Airport (private and recreational aircraft)
Fun fact: Melbourne Airport has its own postcode (3045) separate to the suburb of Tullamarine (3043).
Airlines
Many international airlines service Melbourne Airport. The domestic Australian airlines are:
- Qantas
- Virgin Australia
- Jetstar
- Rex Airlines
These four airlines service all of the major tourist destinations in Australia.
Melbourne Airport Facilities
Each terminal of Melbourne Airport provides the regular awesome services and facilities, including passenger lounges, food courts, cafes, duty free shopping, showers, baby change rooms, internet access, ATMs, restaurants and disabled services.
Airport parking companies run regular shuttle vans, allowing travellers to park their car long-term on a budget outside the airport and then quickly arrive at the terminals on-time! There’s even a Medical Centre and pharmacies at Melbourne Airport.
Shopping at Melbourne Airport
If you’re trying to kill some time while waiting for flights or just interested in some shopping, you won’t be disappointed. There are over 80 specialty retail stores at Melbourne Airport, including boutique fashion, book shops to find something to read in flight, duty free gift shops, and souvenir storess. And, you’ll never go hungry, there are lots of food options too!
Nearby Accommodation
For those looking for nearby accommodation, there are three Melbourne airport hotels within a five minute walk of the terminals:
- PARKROYAL
- Ibis Budget
- Holiday Inn
Transit Options
For utmost convenience, grab a taxi or Uber from outside your arrivals terminal for a fast ride into the city or directly to your accommodation. Note that an airport surcharge will likely be included in your fee.
Otherwise, the best option for most travellers is to take the SkyBus (airport transit bus) directly to Southern Cross Station in the centre of Melbourne. From there, you can connect to other trains, trams, and buses that will take you virtually anywhere in Melbourne and beyond to regional Victoria.
Tip: if you’re catching the SkyBus both to and from Melbourne Airport, buy a return ticket to save money!
Brief History of Melbourne’s Airports
By the mid 1950s, it became obvious that Essendon Airport would eventually be unable to handle the mass increasing volume of planes landing and tacking off. It was not possible to expand the airport at Essendon, as the area had become too residential.
The state government got working on a forward plan — Melbourne Airport opened in 1964, and then commenced international flights in 1970.
Final Tip: It’s a good idea to check the Melbourne weather forecast before you catch your flight, as the weather in Melbourne can be quite different to that in other parts of Australia. If you’re arriving in winter, be sure to carry a jumper or jacket in your carry on luggage!
Melbourne Airport Map
You can download a complete map of Melbourne Airport, including all domestic and international terminals plus all car parks here: Melbourne Airport Map (PDF) 3.30 MB