Why This Change Matters If You’re Driving to the Airport
If you’re heading to Melbourne Airport, the pickup and drop off rules are changing from October 6. This is the biggest change to the airport’s road network since it opened in 1970. Beware! The old routine no longer applies.
The Old Drop Off Ramp Is Gone
The old departures drop off ramp has been retired. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 now use the new T123 Transport Hub instead. Drop off happens on Level 3, while pickup is on Level 2 towards the rear, which is undercover and close to around 100 parking spaces.
How to Actually Get There
Access has changed too. Instead of taking the old Terminal Drive exit to get to Departure Drive, you now need to take the new Exit 19 off the Tullamarine Freeway. This exit is named Naarm Way. Naarm is the indigenous place name for where Melbourne is located. If you miss this exit, you’ll need to double back, so it’s good to know the new route before you’re already on the freeway.
Terminal 4 Passengers Can Relax
If you’re flying out of Terminal 4, nothing has changed for you. This update only affects Terminals 1, 2 and 3, so Jetstar and Rex passengers using T4 can continue using the existing setup as normal.
Arriving Early? Use the Free Wait Zone
If you’re getting to the airport ahead of time to pick someone up, the free Wait Zone on Mercer Drive gives you 60 minutes of free parking while you wait for your passenger to land and reach the pickup area.
Plan Your Route Before You Leave Home
With a new exit, new levels and a new hub layout, it’s worth mapping out your route before you set off rather than relying on habit from previous trips. A few minutes of planning now will save you circling the airport looking for the right entrance later.
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