Melbourne Airport or Tullamarine Airport (MEL)

About Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Melbourne Airport is the primary international and domestic airport serving Melbourne, the capital of Victoria and Australia's second largest city. Located in Tullamarine, about 23 km northwest of the CBD, it is Australia's second busiest airport. Operated by APAC, it handles over 35 million passengers annually and is a key hub for Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and international carriers flying to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Tullamarine Airport Details - Melbourne Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Melbourne Airport
• IATA Code: MEL
• ICAO Code: YMML
• Address: Centre Road, Tullamarine, Victoria 3045, Australia
• Airport Pin Code: 3045
• Distance from Melbourne CBD: Approximately 23 km
• Phone Number: +61 3 9297 1600
• Old Name: Tullamarine Airport

How Many Airports in Melbourne?

Melbourne is served by two commercial airports. MEL in Tullamarine is the main hub. Avalon Airport (AVV), about 55 km southwest near Geelong, handles select domestic and limited international services. Essendon Fields serves only general aviation and cargo. Moorabbin Airport is used for general aviation and flight training.

How Many Terminals in Melbourne Airport?

Melbourne Airport has four terminals. T1 handles international flights, T2 serves Qantas domestic, T3 handles Virgin Australia and Rex, and T4 is used by Jetstar and other low-cost carriers. All are within the same precinct and reachable on foot or by a short transfer.

Distance Between Melbourne Airport Terminals

Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are directly connected, with the longest walk taking about 10 to 15 minutes. Terminal 4 is reachable by a short walk or free shuttle. International-to-domestic passengers should allow at least 60 to 90 minutes to clear customs and reach their terminal.

How Many Runways in Melbourne Airport?

Melbourne Airport has four runways in two parallel pairs. The main runways (16/34) are approximately 3,657 metres each for wide-body long-haul operations. The cross runways (09/27) are around 2,286 metres each. All are equipped with instrument landing systems for 24-hour operations.

Visa and Immigration for Melbourne Airport

Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Australia. There is no visa on arrival, so the visa must be secured before departure.

• Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600): Indian nationals must apply for a Subclass 600 Visitor Visa online through ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before travelling.
• ETA (Subclass 601): Not available to Indian passport holders. The Subclass 600 Visitor Visa is the required option for Indian nationals.
• Other Visas: Indian nationals travelling for study or work must apply for the relevant visa category through ImmiAccount before departure.
• Required Documents: Valid Indian passport with 6 months of validity, proof of funds, return or onward ticket, accommodation details, and documents supporting the purpose of visit.
• Visa Fee: The Subclass 600 Visitor Visa starts from approximately AUD 190, payable online at the time of application.
• Immigration Process: On arrival at MEL, proceed to the Australian Border Force (ABF) staffed counters. Complete the incoming passenger card and present your passport and visa. Indian passport holders are processed at staffed counters rather than SmartGate kiosks.

Apply well in advance as processing times can vary. Check current requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website before departure.

Melbourne Airport Lounges and Facilities

• Qantas Club and Business Lounge (T2): For Qantas Frequent Flyer members and business class passengers, with dining, drinks, showers, and Wi-Fi.
• Virgin Australia The Club (T3): For Velocity frequent flyers and eligible passengers, with refreshments and comfortable seating.
• Plaza Premium Lounge (T1): Pay-per-use, open to all passengers, with dining, drinks, showers, and Wi-Fi.
• General Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, family rooms, prayer rooms, medical services, ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shopping, and varied dining across all terminals.

Things to Do in Melbourne Airport

• Shop duty-free in Terminal 1 for wines, spirits, cosmetics, and Australian products including Ugg boots and local souvenirs.
• Dine at a wide range of restaurants and cafes across all terminals serving Australian and international cuisine.

Places to Visit Near Melbourne Airport

• Melbourne CBD: About 23 km away, offering Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the city's renowned food and coffee culture.

FAQs About Melbourne Airport - Melbourne Airport

What is the Official Name of Melbourne Airport?

The official name is Melbourne Airport, formerly known as Tullamarine Airport.

What is the IATA Code for Melbourne Airport?

The IATA code is MEL and the ICAO code is YMML.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Melbourne Airport?

Terminal 1 handles all international flights. Terminals 2, 3, and 4 serve domestic routes for Qantas, Virgin Australia, Rex, and Jetstar respectively.

Where is Melbourne Airport Located?

Melbourne Airport is in Tullamarine, Victoria, approximately 23 km northwest of the Melbourne CBD.

When Was Melbourne Airport Built?

Melbourne Airport opened in July 1970, replacing Essendon Airport as Melbourne's main commercial hub. It has been expanded and upgraded several times since, with ongoing works to increase capacity.

Is MEL Open 24 Hours?

Yes, Melbourne Airport operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How Far is Melbourne Airport from Melbourne City Center?

The airport is approximately 23 km from the CBD, about 25 to 40 minutes by car. SkyBus coaches run regularly between the airport and Southern Cross Station in the city.

What Airlines Operate from MEL?

Airlines at MEL include Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Rex, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Air India, Malaysia Airlines, and Air New Zealand, among others.

Are There Lounges at Melbourne Airport?

Yes, Melbourne Airport has the Qantas Club, Virgin Australia The Club, the Plaza Premium Lounge (T1), and various international airline lounges for premium passengers.