Overview
Passengers ready and waiting to be collected? There are pick up and drop off zones located at Terminal 1,2,3 and Terminal 4.
Due to ongoing construction on our terminal road network, we encourage you to use the Terminal 4 Car Park (Exit 19A via Naarm Way) when picking up or dropping off passengers, to avoid congestion in the Terminal 123 forecourt.
If you are picking someone up and they are not quite ready, the Wait Zone located on Mercer Drive is free to park for the first 60 minutes.
Pick-up zones
Terminal 1, 2 & 3
For those flying Qantas, Virgin Australia domestic flights or international airlines, Melbourne Airport pick-up zones are located on the ground level of the Terminal 1, 2 & 3 forecourt.
Terminal 4
If you’re collecting a passenger arriving at T4, proceed to Level 1 of the Terminal 4 Car Park. Follow the signs or check out our pick-up zone map.
Standing time limit
To avoid congestion, there is a 1-minute-standing time limit for all vehicles. Please ensure your passenger is waiting and ready for collection before entering the pick-up area.
Pick-up Zone map
Drop-off areas
Terminal 1, 2 & 3
Passengers can be dropped off via Departure Drive on Level 2 of the Terminal 1, 2 & 3 forecourt.
Terminal 4
Passengers can be dropped off via Level 2 of the Terminal 4 Car Park. Follow the signs when arriving at the Terminal 4 Car Park.
For longer goodbyes
You can drop your passengers off with their luggage right at the kerb and then head to the nearest car park.
15 minutes free Terminal Parking
Park for free in our Terminal Car Parks. The first 15 minutes are free, then $17 for the first hour of parking. If you’re planning on staying a bit longer, view our drive-up rates, or save by booking online for the best rates.
Drop-off Zone Map
Wait Zone
If you need a little more time to wait for your passengers, the Wait Zone is located on Mercer Drive, just off the Tullamarine Freeway or Airport Drive. It is free to park for the first 60 minutes. Then, 60 minutes to 2 hours is just $4. Over 2 hours will be charged at Terminal Car Park prices (drive-up rates available here).
Wait Zone map
Accessibility Facilities for Pick-up and Drop-off
For passengers with accessibility needs, Melbourne Airport has designated pick-up and drop-off bays at all airport terminals. These bays are located directly in front of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. There's also a dedicated area within the Public Transport Hub at Terminal 4, on level 2 for pick-ups and level 1 for drop-offs.
For security reasons, drivers must stay with their vehicles at all times in these zones. This policy helps maintain safety and order around the busy terminal areas.
Passengers who require wheelchair assistance or other support can arrange these services through their airlines when booking. It's important to reconfirm these details with the airline before your travel date to ensure everything is set. Airlines are also equipped to advise on the most convenient drop-off and pick-up spots at the airport.
Additionally, carers who assist passengers and are holding a valid companion card are entitled to a full refund of parking fees, provided the parking duration does not exceed two hours. These refunds apply to parking at any Terminal Car Park and can be requested online by submitting proof of the companion's flight details and the companion card.
For extended pick-ups and drop-offs, we also have accessible parking bays adjacent to the lifts on levels 1, 2, and 3 at the Terminal 1, 2, and 3 Car Park. We recommend parking on row F for the best access to Terminals 2 and 3, while parking on row M at Terminal 1 provides easier access to the Qantas domestic terminal.
Tips for Smooth Pick-up and Drop-off
Melbourne Airport can get busy, so planning your pick-up or drop-off ahead of time will help things run smoothly. Here are some tips to help you:
- Know your terminal: Melbourne Airport has four terminals. Double-check which terminal your passenger is flying in or out of before you head there. This will save you the hassle of circling the airport, looking for the right spot.
- Check Traffic Updates: Before heading to the airport, check the current traffic conditions to estimate your travel time. The roads to Tullamarine can get pretty busy, especially during peak hours.
- Stay with Your Vehicle: For security reasons, you must stay with your vehicle at all times in the drop-off and pick-up zones. This keeps the area clear and moving smoothly.
- Drive to the Airport Yourself: While rideshares and public transportation options abound at Melbourne Airport, driving to the airport yourself gives you more flexibility and convenience when there are flight delays or cancellations.
Consider Short-Term Parking Options: If you need to stay at the airport longer, parking on-site is much more convenient and sometimes more cost-effective than circling around the area. Melbourne Airport has onsite parking spaces available at hourly and daily rates, perfect for quick and extended pick-ups and drop-offs. You can even pre-book your parking online so you can get your airport parking sorted before leaving home.
Whether you're picking up loved ones or whisking them away on an adventure, a smooth airport experience makes all the difference. So, bookmark this page, relax, and get ready to enjoy a seamless Melbourne Airport pick-up or drop-off experience.