News

Melbourne Airport opens new passenger concourse

3 Dec 2009

Melbourne Airport lifted the curtain on a new passenger concourse, completing the first stage of a five-year project to expand Terminal 2’s capacity.

The 7,000sqm facility, built at the cost of A$108 million (US$100 million), allows T2 to operate a further three aircraft parking bays, including two Airbus A380-friendly aerobridges. It is part of an A$330 million (US$307 million) terminal enhancement that will result in a more streamlined passenger flow through security and immigration, a new area boasting 10-metre high windows with views of the runway, a new passenger lounge, café and more duty-free and specialty shop space.

The development also incorporates ecologically friendly aspects such as pre-conditioned air and ground power, permitting parked aircraft to switch off their auxilliary power units. This reduces cost and carbon emissions. Other features include automated blinds and a CO2 detection system.

Melbourne Airport's expansion comes at a time when passenger growth is on the rise. In Australia's last financial year, passenger numbers increased by 2.8 percent. The number of airlines tenants looks set to grow as well.

This month, three international airlines – Qatar Airways, V Australia and Viva Macau – brings the hub's portfolio of carriers to 26. V Australia just launched point-to-point services to Los Angeles; Qatar Airways is poised to fly in from Doha this Sunday, December 6; and Viva Macau starts up flights from Macau on Thursday, December 10.

For more details, visit www.melbourneairport.com.au

Liu Hongzuo


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