Melbourne Airport hits record international travellers

In Short:
– Melbourne Airport had a record 1,002,589 international travellers in March, despite Middle East conflict disruptions.
– Expansion plans include a $4.5 billion terminal upgrade and a new runway to accommodate growing travel demand.

Melbourne Airport recorded over one million international travellers in March, marking a monthly record despite disruptions from the ongoing Middle East conflict. The total of 1,002,589 international passengers exceeded the previous record of 937,696 set in 2025.Overall, 3,129,811 people visited the airport last month, boosted by interest in the Melbourne Formula 1 Grand Prix and Labour Day weekend activities.

Record travellers achieved

Domestic passenger numbers increased by 5.9% year-on-year, attributed to prior storms that impacted travel to Queensland.

Despite airspace closures causing many flight cancellations from Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways, the new international record was reached.

March also saw the debut of daily AirAsia flights to Bali, Singapore Airlines upgrading one of its flights to an Airbus A380, and British Airways announcing daily service to London Heathrow beginning January 2027.

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus highlighted that the record underscores the necessity for investment in terminal and airfield infrastructure.

Argus acknowledged the hardships caused by the Middle East conflict, while noting the gradual return of services and increasing airline capacity to Melbourne.

She stated that despite cost of living challenges, travel demand continues as people seek connections with loved ones.

Fuel prices may strain airlines and consumers soon, but investments aim to enhance capacity for both.

Plans include a new third runway and a $4.5 billion expansion of the international terminal, aiming to improve scheduling flexibility for airlines.

The initial phase of the terminal expansion is set to open later this year, featuring an advanced baggage system and new pickup and drop-off locations.