Melbourne Airport CEO calls for more international competition

“Airports are subject to regular monitoring by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, and it makes sense that this arrangement be extended across the broader aviation industry,” said Argus.

“We also believe an open skies approach to bilateral air service agreements will benefit consumers by maximising competition and choice.”

More than 2.9 million people passed through Melbourne’s terminals in September, including 2,006,641 domestic travellers and 894,703 international passengers, an 18 per cent increase year-on-year. This translates to an average of 96,711 people per day.

While international travel continued to surge, up 54 per cent on September 2022, domestic climbed just six per cent year-on-year.

“We know that the average daily international flight is worth $154 million a year to the Victorian economy, which is why we work closely with the State Government to bring new services to Melbourne,” said Argus.

“Our investment in terminal, airfield and road infrastructure will ensure Melbourne Airport is able to support the extra capacity required to keep up with demand from our growing population.”

The airport on Thursday announced major upgrades to the Virgin Australia arrivals hall.