A major Australian airport has unveiled its plans for a major refurbishment, in order to cater to growing international passenger numbers.
Melbourne Airport’s International Arrivals Hall will undergo a multimillion dollar upgrade, which will include:
- Significant expansion of the dwelling area with a larger link connecting Terminals 2 and 3
- Additional seating and escalators
- Improved outdoor taxi pickup zone
- Greater wayfinding
- Repositioned hospitality
Melbourne Airport Chief of Aviation, Andrew Gardiner, said traveller growth was the driving force behind the project.
“Melbourne Airport’s passenger numbers are growing rapidly, especially in the international traveller market, leading us to the International Arrivals Hall expansion, which will future-proof the airport for continued growth,” Mr Gardiner said.
“On an average day almost 16,000 people pass through the Arrivals Hall making it an extremely busy space and numbers are only going to rise.
“The refurbishment is going to create a more spacious and inviting environment for our travellers, while providing better connectivity to the rest of our terminal building.”
Mr Gardiner said the airport’s recent 2018-2019 financial year passenger figures revealed international travellers peaked at 11.4 million, up 5.4 per cent on the last financial year.
“Our passenger data shows the international market is the fastest growing segment out of Melbourne and we want to support that growth by enhancing the overall passenger experience.”
The expansion is scheduled for completion by the end of 2020.
