Qantas Group and Melbourne Airport have reached a commercial agreement that paves the way for more flights, major terminal upgrades and the delivery of the airport’s long-planned third runway.
The deal underpins Melbourne Airport’s A$4.5 billion international terminal expansion, including five additional wide-body gates, and includes a 15-year commitment supporting the third runway, which is scheduled to open in 2031. The agreement is expected to support Qantas’ long-term growth strategy while creating additional capacity for Jetstar, which already operates up to 1,000 weekly flights from Melbourne during peak periods.
Qantas will also develop a new International Business Lounge above Terminal 2, offering sweeping airport views and up to one-third more space than the existing facility. The lounge is expected to open by 2029. International travellers will benefit from faster check-in, premium check-in areas, upgraded automated bag drops, an expanded baggage reclaim hall and improved border processing.
The agreement also supports Qantas’ plans to base Airbus A350-1000LR aircraft in Melbourne, enabling new international services as part of its broader fleet expansion. Final agreements between the airline and airport are expected to be completed in the coming months.
