Melbourne Airport has received Federal Government approval for a third runway to be completed by 2031, adding much-need aviation infrastructure capacity to enable the Victorian hub to reach its 24/7 international gateway potential and increase carrier choice.
Approval for the project’s Major Development Plan paves the way for detailed design and construction to begin.The 3km-long third runway will be built parallel and 1.3km to the west of the existing north-south runway, along with new taxiways and other enabling infrastructure.
The parallel runway system will significantly increase Melbourne Airport’s capacity by allowing for simultaneous take-offs and landings, which will help reduce delays and give existing airlines and new entrants the aviation infrastructure needed for growth.
Construction on the third runway will add 51,000 jobs and almost $6 billion to the state economy every year and follows lengthy community consultation and assessment of the project’s environmental and social impacts in the northwest Melbourne area.
The length of the existing east-west runway will be restored to maximise opportunities for noise sharing.
Melbourne Airport Chief Executive Officer Lorie Argus said the new runway has long-term benefits for travellers and the local economy and brings MEL in line with Sydney and Brisbane, which already operate parallel runway systems.
“The new north-south runway will require new flight paths and ensure Victoria’s primary international gateway has adequate capacity to serve the state’s needs for future generations,” she said.
RMIT aviation expert Dr Chrystal Zhang said: “A third runway will enhance Melbourne Airport’s operational capacity and help minimise flight delays. It will accommodate more traffic, improve the passenger travel experience and reduce airline operational cost.”
“An impact on surrounding suburbs is inevitable. But the airport is exploring noise impacts and will continue to monitor noise levels across the next two decades to attend to the community’s needs.”
Melbourne Airport has also backed the creation of an overground train station as it prioritises support for a “massive increase” in expected passenger numbers and introduced an Australian-first Airport Assist service for travellers with a visible and non-visible disability and mobility requirements.
For more info, visit melbourneairport.com.au