Traveller numbers through Melbourne Airport hit a new post-pandemic high in July, with more than 2.9 million people passing through the terminals as the airport’s CEO called for more competition.
Lorie Argus, the chief executive at the airport, said more international competition would increase options for Australian travellers and exporters.
“We believe there is significant potential for improved access to Australia, and Melbourne in particular, through Asia-Pacific and the Middle East,” Argus said.
“Liberalising the Bilateral Air Service Agreements process through an open skies approach would significantly improve Australia’s connectivity with the world.
“The current framework adopts a “just-in-time” approach to capacity decisions but given the long lead
times required to establish new services, having negotiations undertaken well in advance would provide
airlines with certainty and help improve viability.
“This would improve outcomes for passengers by encouraging international airlines to actively compete in
our market to provide the best price, enhanced service and improved reliability for customers.”
For the first time since the onset of COVID, Melbourne Airport processed a monthly total of more than two million domestic passengers, while international traveller numbers surpassed 900,000.
The overall number represents 90 per cent of the passengers carried in July 2019, with domestic traffic at 90 per cent and international travellers at 92 per cent of the pre-pandemic figure.
International travel was heavily weighted to arrivals (55%), reflecting the end of winter school holidays and the return of overseas students.
The top countries for non-Australian passport arrivals into Melbourne were China, New Zealand, India, the United Kingdom and Vietnam.
To help cater for future passenger growth, Melbourne Airport has submitted plans for a parallel north-south runway.
Subject to government approval, it is hoped the runway will open in 2030.
