Melbourne Airport’s New Pick-Up And Drop-Off Zones: What Travellers Need To Know

Travelling to and from Melbourne Airport is about to change significantly. From 6 October 2026, new public pick-up and drop-off zones will open for passengers using Terminals 1, 2 and 3, representing the biggest change to the airport’s road network since it opened in 1970.

The changes form part of Melbourne Airport’s Naarm Way project, designed to improve vehicle movement around the precinct, reduce congestion and provide additional space for passengers and drivers. With Melbourne Airport serving more than 100,000 people each day and passenger numbers expected to continue growing, the new infrastructure is intended to make ground transport more efficient while supporting the airport’s future expansion.

A New Route for Terminals 1, 2 and 3

One of the most important changes for drivers is the route into the airport. From 6 October, people travelling to pick up or drop off passengers will need to leave the Tullamarine Freeway earlier at Exit 19, Naarm Way, and follow the elevated roadway towards the appropriate terminal facilities.

The new T123 Transport Hub will service passengers using Terminal 1 for Qantas domestic flights, Terminal 2 for international services and Terminal 3 for Virgin Australia. Access to the airport’s existing parking facilities will remain unchanged.

Drivers should pay close attention to airport signage during the transition, particularly if they are accustomed to using the existing departures ramp or arrivals forecourt.

Where to Drop Off Passengers

The new free drop-off area will be located on Level 3 of the T123 Transport Hub. It will feature six lanes and 74 spaces, almost doubling the capacity of the current drop-off area.

The additional space should make departures easier during busy travel periods and reduce some of the congestion associated with the existing terminal forecourt.

Taxis, Uber and other rideshare vehicles dropping passengers off will also use the new Level 3 area from 6 October.

A New Undercover Pick-Up Area

For private vehicles collecting passengers from Terminals 1, 2 and 3, the new pick-up zone will be located on Level 2 of the T123 Transport Hub.

The undercover area will provide 115 spaces—almost three times the current capacity—and passengers will have access to nearby toilets and shelter while waiting for their driver.

The new pick-up and drop-off zones will be free for five minutes, according to Melbourne Airport’s current guidance. Drivers arriving too early can instead use the 60-minute Free Wait Zone on Mercer Drive, approximately a five-minute drive from the new pick-up area.

Taxi, Uber and other rideshare pick-ups, however, will remain on the ground-level airport forecourt rather than moving to the new private-vehicle pick-up zone.

What About Terminal 4?

Passengers using Terminal 4 should experience fewer changes. The existing Terminal 4 Transport Hub will continue operating, with private vehicle pick-up on Level 1 and drop-off on Level 2.

This means travellers flying with Jetstar domestic services should continue following signs for the T4 Transport Hub.

Making Business Travel More Convenient

The changes will also be important for corporate travellers who regularly move between Melbourne Airport, the CBD and surrounding business districts. A smoother airport arrival or departure can make a meaningful difference when employees are travelling for meetings, projects, relocations or extended assignments.

For professionals staying for several weeks or months, fully furnished serviced apartments in Melbourne can complement this more flexible travel experience. Unlike a conventional hotel room, serviced apartments can provide kitchens, laundry facilities, living areas and dedicated spaces for working, helping business travellers establish a more comfortable routine during extended assignments. Convenient access to major roads and transport connections can also simplify journeys between accommodation, workplaces and Melbourne Airport.

Supporting Melbourne Airport’s Future Expansion

The new transport arrangements are not simply about changing where passengers meet their drivers. Moving public pick-up and drop-off traffic into the T123 Transport Hub will free up valuable space in front of the terminals.

The existing departures ramp will close as the new system begins operating, allowing work to progress on Melbourne Airport’s planned international terminal expansion. The airport has announced a broader $4.5 billion privately funded expansion program, including additional international gates and expanded check-in and baggage-claim facilities.

Accessibility support is also being expanded. Melbourne Airport says its free Airport Assist service, operated with Travellers Aid, will extend its operating hours from 6 October and provide additional mobility equipment to support passengers moving through the precinct.

Preparing Before Your Next Airport Trip

For regular Melbourne Airport users, the biggest challenge may simply be breaking old driving habits. Drivers should remember three key details: 6 October 2026, Exit 19/Naarm Way, and the T123 Transport Hub for private pick-up and drop-off when using Terminals 1, 2 and 3.

Allowing extra time during the initial transition and following updated signage will help make the change easier. Melbourne Airport has also published journey information and videos showing the new routes so travellers and drivers can familiarise themselves with the system before arriving.

As Melbourne continues to grow as a destination for tourism, international travel and business, these changes are intended to create a more organised airport experience while providing the infrastructure needed for future passenger growth.