Virgin Australia guests will have an easier experience at security and access to an expanded range of food and beverage options with the opening of a $30 million-dollar redevelopment of Melbourne Airport’s Terminal 3.
The centrepiece of the upgrade is an indoor walkway linking the landside departures levels of Terminals 3 and 4, as well as the consolidation of security screening at an expanded central location in Terminal 4.
Virgin Australia guests will now be screened using the latest smart security technology, which allows them to keep laptops, tablets and liquids in their bags, with an additional two lanes opened to increase processing capacity.
All Virgin Australia passengers are now able to enjoy a wider range of facilities right up until boarding and for the first time at Melbourne Airport, the Virgin Australia lounge is located in the secure airside zone.
Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said the upgrade work has been driven by the airport’s vision to become Australia’s favourite airport destination.
“Virgin Australia is Melbourne Airport’s fastest growing customer, but the terminal hasn’t had an upgrade this significant in more than 20 years,” she said.
“One of the biggest pinch points for Virgin guests has been the security check points, and we expect this change will help improve the experience for passengers as they pass through screening.
“A lack of space means expanding existing checkpoints to accommodate modern technology was not an option, but we think consolidating the screening operation results in a better outcome for passengers.
“These improvements provide Virgin Australia guests with airside access to some of Melbourne Airport’s favourite brands, including Brunetti, Mecca, Mimco and Lego alongside the great options they already enjoy.
"The changes do mean a new passenger journey for Virgin customers, and we will have staff on hand to help guide people through the changes.”
The redevelopment also includes new amenities in Terminal 4, with an all-gender restroom, adult change room, a parents’ room, accessible restroom and an assistance animal relief area now available after security.