Hire the best car at the best price at Melbourne Avalon Airport

Melbourne Avalon Airport Complete Guide

Overview

Located approximately 50km southwest of Melbourne’s CBD and 18km northeast of Geelong, Avalon Airport (AVV) serves as a secondary airport for Melbourne. While smaller than Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), Avalon offers domestic and limited international flights with less congestion and often competitive fares. The airport is owned by Linfox Group and has been operating commercial passenger services since 2004, gradually expanding its operations over the years.

Getting To and From the Airport

From Melbourne

• SkyBus: The most convenient public transport option, SkyBus operates frequent services between Southern Cross Station in Melbourne CBD and Avalon Airport. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes and tickets can be purchased online, at the terminal, or on board. Adult fares are approximately $24 one-way and $46 return, with discounts available for children and families.
• Car: Accessible via the Princes Freeway (M1), the drive from Melbourne CBD takes around 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. The route is well-signposted, making navigation straightforward. Follow the Avalon Airport exit signs from the freeway.
• Rideshare/Taxi: Services like Uber, Didi, and traditional taxis are available, though expect to pay around $100-140 for the journey from Melbourne CBD. Pre-booking is recommended, especially for early morning or late-night flights.

From Geelong

• SkyBus: Services also run between Geelong central and Avalon Airport, with pickup points at Geelong Railway Station and a few other locations throughout the city. Journey time is approximately 30 minutes.
• Car: Only a 20-minute drive from Geelong via the Princes Freeway, with easy access and ample parking.
• Local Buses: Limited local bus services connect Geelong suburbs with Lara Station, from which the airport is a short taxi ride away.

Terminal Information

Avalon has a single terminal handling both domestic and international flights. The compact size makes navigation straightforward, with check-in counters at the front, security screening in the center, and departure gates toward the rear of the building.

Check-in and Security

• Check-in counters are located on the ground floor near the main entrance
• Self-service kiosks are available for most airlines
• Security screening is generally quick compared to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine)
• International departures have a separate customs and immigration area

Airlines Operating from Avalon

• Jetstar: The primary carrier, offering domestic routes to Sydney, Gold Coast, Adelaide, and seasonal services to other destinations
• AirAsia: Operates international routes to Kuala Lumpur, providing connections to various Asian destinations
• Charter and seasonal services: Various carriers operate seasonal and charter flights, particularly during peak holiday periods

Airport Facilities

Food and Shopping

• Hudsons Coffee: Serving coffee, light meals, and snacks
• Four Bears Café: Offering breakfast, sandwiches, and hot meals
• Airport Bar: Serving alcoholic beverages and pub-style food
• WHSmith: Newsagent and convenience store selling books, magazines, and travel essentials
• Duty-Free (for international departures): Limited selection of alcohol, cosmetics, and gifts
• Souvenir shop: Selling Australian memorabilia and local products

Services

• Free WiFi throughout the terminal with reasonable speeds
• ATMs located in the main concourse
• Currency exchange services (limited hours)
• Car rental desks (Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty)
• Baggage services and storage facilities
• Charging stations for electronic devices
• First aid facilities and baby changing rooms
• Prayer room and quiet spaces

Parking

• Short-term parking: Located directly in front of the terminal, ideal for pickups and drop-offs. Rates start at approximately $4 for 30 minutes, with a daily maximum of around $25.
• Long-term parking: A short walk from the terminal with covered and uncovered options. Prices typically start at around $15 per day, with significant discounts for longer stays. Online pre-booking often provides better rates.
• Premium parking: A limited number of spaces closest to the terminal entrance, with rates of approximately $30 per day.
• Pick-up/Drop-off zone: A designated area allowing for quick passenger drop-offs and pickups, with strict time limits (typically 1-2 minutes) and no waiting permitted.

Accessibility

• Designated accessible parking spaces in all car parks
• Wheelchair access throughout the terminal
• Accessible restrooms and facilities
• Special assistance available through airlines (must be pre-arranged)
• Hearing loops installed at key service points

Tips for Travelers

Before Your Flight

• Arrive at least 1 hour before domestic flights and 2-3 hours before international flights
• Check-in online where possible to save time at the airport
• Limited public transport options mean planning your journey to/from the airport is essential
• Consider pre-booking parking online for better rates
• Check your airline’s baggage allowances and restrictions before packing

At the Airport

• The smaller size means shorter security lines and less walking compared to Melbourne Airport
• Food options are limited so consider bringing your own snacks, especially for late flights
• Power outlets are available but can be limited during busy periods
• Seating can become scarce during peak times, particularly if multiple flights are delayed
• Download entertainment before your flight as streaming services may be slow on the airport WiFi during busy periods

Seasonal Considerations

• During school holidays and peak summer periods, the terminal can become crowded
• Winter fog occasionally causes flight delays in the early morning
• Strong winds can affect flight schedules, particularly in spring

Nearby Accommodation

Limited options exist close to the airport, with most travelers staying in Geelong or Melbourne. The closest accommodations are in Lara, about 5km from the terminal:

• Avalon Airport Motel: The closest accommodation, offering basic rooms and a shuttle service
• Lara residential areas: Several Airbnb and holiday rental options in nearby suburbs
• Little River: A few bed and breakfast options in this rural area, approximately 10km from the airport
• Geelong: A wide range of accommodation options from budget to luxury, 20 minutes drive from the airport

Surrounding Attractions

While most travelers use Avalon as a gateway to Melbourne or Geelong, there are some local attractions worth noting:

• You Yangs Regional Park: Impressive granite ridges offering hiking, mountain biking, and panoramic views, located 10 minutes from the airport
• Serendip Sanctuary: Wildlife sanctuary home to native birds and animals, ideal for nature lovers
• Werribee Open Range Zoo: African-themed zoo experience with safari tours, approximately 25 minutes drive
• Geelong Waterfront: Beautiful promenade with restaurants, swimming areas, and the iconic Carousel, 20 minutes away
• Surf Coast and Great Ocean Road: One of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives begins just 30 minutes south of the airport

Future Development

Avalon Airport continues to develop its facilities and attract new airlines:

• Plans to expand international routes to destinations in Asia and the Pacific
• Terminal improvements including more food outlets and retail options
• Potential for a hotel development adjacent to the terminal
• Railway station proposal to connect the airport to Melbourne and Geelong via the regional rail network
• Continued development of the adjacent industrial precinct and business park

Event Services

Avalon Airport serves as the venue for the Australian International Airshow (held biennially), during which special transport arrangements and facilities are implemented.

Contact Information

• Airport Information: +61 3 5227 9100
• Website: www.avalonairport.com.au
• Address: 80 Beach Road, Lara VIC 3212, Australia
• Email: info@avalonairport.com.au