Airline operator Virgin Australia has unveiled its redevelopment plans for Melbourne Airport’s Terminal 3 (T3) domestic facility over the next three years.
By mid-2019 the redeveloped terminal will offer an automated check-in process including self-service check-in kiosks, automated bag drop facilities, and a customer service desk to assist guests. The introduction of the automated features will greatly reduce the time taken to clear check-in and deposit luggage.
Once complete, T3 will feature a dedicated Premium Entry service for Virgin Australia’s Business Class guests and Platinum and Gold Velocity Frequent Flyers, including dedicated check-in, bag drop and security screening features as well as direct access to the Virgin Australia Lounge. A new internal ramp between Terminals 3 and 4 will enable the repositioning of T3 security screening facilities, helping to reduce passenger congestion and offering better access to the new retail offering in T4. Two new baggage carousels will also be added to the T3 arrivals hall.
Virgin Australia and Melbourne Airport are working together to finalize the design process, with works anticipated to begin in 2018.
Rob Sharp, group executive for Virgin Australia Airlines, said, “The airport experience is an important part of our guest’s overall travel experience. Virgin Australia runs a major operation at Melbourne Airport, operating up to 100 return flights each day. The redeveloped terminal will see Virgin Australia provide guests with a world-class experience on the ground, to match the unrivalled service we provide on-board.
“We were the first airline in Australia to introduce the curbside Premium Entry product at Sydney Airport and we are thrilled to be able to offer this to our customers traveling through Melbourne.”
Lyell Strambi, CEO, Melbourne Airport, said, “Around two thirds of all passengers traveling through Melbourne Airport are flying on a domestic service, so we welcome Virgin Australia’s vision for the traveler experience and commitment to Melbourne. We are excited to continue working closely with Virgin Australia to bring this wonderful vision to life.”
The refurbished T3 facility will be instrumental in supporting growth in the city, with Melbourne predicted to overtake Sydney as Australia’s largest city as early as 2029.