Destinations
Melbourne Airport Pickup Changes from October 6: The New Route Explained
From October 6, 2026, private-car pickup and drop-off for Terminals 1, 2 and 3 will move to the T123 Transport Hub. Here’s the new freeway exit and where to go once you arrive.
Important date: Melbourne Airport’s new pickup and drop-off arrangements for Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are scheduled to begin on October 6, 2026. If you’re collecting someone before that date, the existing arrangements still apply; check the airport’s latest information before setting off in case plans change.
The new route for picking up passengers at T1, T2 or T3
From October 6, follow this route:
Tullamarine Freeway → Exit 19, Naarm Way → follow signs for T123 Pick Up → T123 Transport Hub, Level 2, rear of the short-term car park.
The public pickup area for passengers arriving at Terminals 1, 2 and 3 will move from the terminal forecourt to the new T123 Transport Hub. The airport says the new pickup area is free for up to five minutes. Have your passenger ready and waiting before entering the zone, and follow signs on the approach.
If you’re dropping someone off at T1, T2 or T3
Use the same dedicated freeway exit, Exit 19, Naarm Way, and follow signs to the T123 Transport Hub. The new public drop-off area is on Level 3. The previous Departures Drive ramp will no longer be the public drop-off point for these terminals under the new arrangement.
What about Terminal 4?
The airport says the change applies to Terminals 1, 2 and 3. For Terminal 4, pickup remains on Level 1 of the T4 Transport Hub and drop-off remains on Level 2. Follow airport signs for the T4 zones and check current directions before travelling.
Quick route guide
- Collecting a T1, T2 or T3 passenger: Exit 19, Naarm Way → T123 Transport Hub → Level 2 pickup.
- Dropping off a T1, T2 or T3 passenger: Exit 19, Naarm Way → T123 Transport Hub → Level 3 drop-off.
- Collecting at T4: T4 Transport Hub → Level 1 pickup; the airport says this arrangement is unchanged.
- Dropping off at T4: T4 Transport Hub → Level 2 drop-off; the airport says this arrangement is unchanged.
Before you drive
Confirm which terminal your passenger is using, since the terminal determines which hub and level to follow. Allow time to read the airport signs, and check Melbourne Airport’s official pickup and drop-off information or journey planner before departure for any updates.
Details in this guide reflect Melbourne Airport’s published information available ahead of the scheduled October 6, 2026 change.
