The way Melburnians say goodbye at the airport is about to change forever.
As part of a major redevelopment project, Melbourne Airport will remove direct passenger drop-offs outside terminal doors and shift all pick-up and drop-off activity to a new off-site transport hub expected to open later in 2026.
The project, known as the T123 Transport Hub, is currently under construction within the airport’s car park precinct and will connect travellers to terminals via a pedestrian bridge. Once completed, the current departures ramp will close to allow for the expansion of the airport’s international terminal.
Airport officials say the overhaul is necessary as Melbourne Airport prepares for future growth, with passenger numbers forecast to climb to 68 million annually by 2038.
The new setup is designed to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow around the busy terminal precinct, following a model already used at major overseas airports including New York’s JFK and San Francisco International.
For travellers, though, the biggest difference will be felt in the final moments before a flight. Instead of being dropped metres from the terminal entrance, passengers will need to walk between 172 and 350 metres from the new drop-off areas, with pick-up zones sitting even further away for some terminals.
While the airport describes the hub as a more efficient front door, some travellers worry the shift could make airport farewells feel colder and more transactional.
The change is also raising accessibility concerns, particularly for elderly passengers, families carrying luggage and travellers with mobility challenges. Melbourne Airport says wheelchair and buggy assistance will be available daily between 6am and 10pm to help passengers move between the hub and terminals.
Despite the mixed reactions, signage already installed around the airport is promoting the project as a modern upgrade, promising travellers more room for hellos and goodbyes when the new transport system officially launches.
