Essendon Airport

Essendon Airport (Essendon Fields Airport) is not just a transport hub, but a true legend of Australian aviation, located just a few minutes from the centre of Melbourne. Before the opening of the major international hub Tullamarine, Essendon was the city's main air gateway, where even The Beatles landed in 1964, greeting crowds of fans. Today, this cosy airport is experiencing a rebirth, serving regional flights, private jets, and emergency service aviation, offering passengers a unique atmosphere without the queues and bustle of large terminals.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main advantage of Essendon is its compactness and speed of service. There are no huge terminals or hours of waiting here: flight check-in often closes just 20–30 minutes before departure. Passengers note the incredibly convenient location — the airport is much closer to Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD) than the main international airport, making it an ideal choice for business travellers and those flying to the islands of Tasmania (King and Flinders).

The area around the airport has transformed into the lively Essendon Fields district. It houses a large DFO outlet centre, supermarkets, and a modern Hyatt Place hotel, allowing you to spend time comfortably before or after your flight. History enthusiasts will appreciate the preserved atmosphere of the "Golden Age" of aviation, as well as a small museum dedicated to the glorious past of this place.

• Official Airport Website: www.ef.com.au
• Help Desk Phone: +61 3 9948 9400 (Essendon Fields Administration)
• Airport Address: 72 Hargrave Avenue, Essendon Fields, Victoria 3041, Australia (Main Terminal)
• Email: aviation@ef.com.au (aviation matters) or askme@ef.com.au (general enquiries)
• Airport Social Media: Look for official Essendon Fields pages on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for news and updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: If items are left on board the aircraft, contact your airline directly (e.g., Sharp Airlines or Link Airways). For items lost in the terminal, contact the airport administration at +61 3 9948 9400.
• Passenger Support Contacts: The airport operates primarily with regional and private flights, so for booking, check-in, and schedule questions, it is best to call your carrier's call centre.

Thanks to its convenient location just 11–13 kilometres northwest of the Central Business District (CBD), getting to Essendon Airport (Essendon Fields) is quick and relatively inexpensive. Unlike major hubs, logistics here are much simpler, and the trip takes less time.

Public Transport

For those preferring budget-friendly options, Melbourne's transport system offers a convenient combination of train and free shuttle, or a tram ride.

• Train + Shuttle: The most popular method. You need to take the Craigieburn line train from Flinders Street Station or any City Loop station to Essendon Station. From the station, the free Essendon Fields Shuttle Bus runs, taking you directly to the terminal and the Hyatt Place hotel. The shuttle ride takes about 10–15 minutes.
• Tram: Route No. 59 (Airport West) departs from Elizabeth Street in the city centre. You need to get off at the Earl St/Matthews Ave (Stop 56) stop. From there, you will have to walk about 10–15 minutes to the main terminal. This is a scenic but slower option — the journey from the centre will take about 45–50 minutes.

Taxi and Transfers

A taxi ride or using rideshare services (Uber, DiDi, Ola) is the most comfortable option, especially if you are travelling with luggage. The journey from the city centre via the CityLink toll road takes just 15–20 minutes outside of peak hours. The estimated cost of the trip is 35–50 AUD.

If you are heading here in transit from the main international airport Tullamarine, which is only 8 km away, a taxi will cost approximately 20–30 AUD and take no more than 10 minutes.

Car Rental and Parking

Getting to the airport by car is very simple: follow the Tullamarine Freeway (M2) and take the Essendon Fields / Matthews Ave exit. Please note that there may be toll sections on the route.

Spacious parking zones are provided within the airport territory:

• Short-term parking is convenient for dropping off and picking up (often the first 2 hours may be free in zones near the shopping centre, but always check the signs).
• Long-term parking is located within walking distance of the terminal and costs less than at major international airports (approximately from 10–15 AUD per day when booking online).

Other Regional Airports

When planning complex routes around Australia, it is useful to know the location of alternative air hubs. Besides the neighbouring Tullamarine, Avalon is often used for budget travel, located a bit further from the city. Also, regional flights from Victoria operate to places such as King Island Airport, Albury Airport on the border with New South Wales, and Mount Gambier Airport.

Recommendations for Travellers:

On weekends, the Essendon Fields area attracts many locals due to the DFO outlet and supermarkets located here. This can create traffic jams at the entrance and exit. If your flight is scheduled for Saturday or Sunday, allow an extra 15–20 minutes for travel and finding parking.

Essendon Airport (MEB) differs strikingly from giant international hubs in its intimacy and simplicity. Here you will not find confusing mazes, underground trains, or multi-level crossings. The entire infrastructure is designed so that a passenger can go from the building entrance to the aircraft steps in a matter of minutes.

Airport Structure and Terminals

The main activity for servicing scheduled passenger flights is concentrated in the Main Terminal. This is a beautiful historic building, restored while preserving the Art Deco style, which serves as home to regional carriers such as Sharp Airlines and Link Airways. For a tourist flying on a scheduled flight, this is the only building you need to know.

Besides the main terminal, there are separate facilities for private aviation and business jets (FBO — Fixed Base Operators) on the airfield territory. These terminals operate autonomously, serving VIP clients and charter flights, and are located in other parts of the airfield where ordinary passengers do not go.

Departure and Arrival Zones

The layout of the Main Terminal is intuitive and occupies just one level:

• Check-in Zone: Airline check-in counters are located immediately opposite the main entrance. Due to the small flow of passengers, there are rarely long queues here.
• Security and Lounge: The security checkpoint is located a few steps from the check-in counters. Passing through it, you enter the General Lounge. This is a cosy space with armchairs, a small café, and amenities, offering a view of the airfield.
• Boarding Gate: There are no aerobridges at Essendon. Boarding is done in the most nostalgic way — on foot across the tarmac. Airline staff accompany passengers from the terminal doors directly to the aircraft.
• Arrival Zone: Arriving passengers also walk from the aircraft to the terminal. Baggage claim happens as quickly as possible: suitcases are often unloaded almost immediately after you enter the building.

Features and Processing Times

The main "highlight" of Essendon is speed. The time required here for formalities is incomparable to large airports:

• Check-in: Usually opens 60 minutes prior and closes 20–30 minutes before departure. You do not need to arrive 2–3 hours in advance.
• Security: The procedure takes from 2 to 5 minutes. Since flights are domestic and planes are small, requirements for screening might be slightly more relaxed regarding liquids, but safety standards are strictly observed.

Navigation Recommendations

It is impossible to get lost in Essendon, however, several nuances should be considered:

If you arrive by car or taxi, aim for the address 72 Hargrave Avenue. This is the entrance to the main passenger terminal. Do not confuse it with the offices of logistics companies located nearby.

For those waiting for a flight or meeting guests, the Hyatt Place hotel with a restaurant and bar, as well as a shopping centre, are located in immediate proximity (literally across the road). The walk between the terminal and these facilities takes no more than 2–3 minutes via the footpath, allowing you to spend time comfortably if you arrived too early.

The history of Essendon Airport (MEB) is a fascinating journey spanning a century: from a grass field for early aviation enthusiasts to the status of Melbourne's main international gateway and subsequent rebirth as a modern business hub. For Australians, this place is steeped in nostalgia and the spirit of the "Golden Age" of travel.

Birth of a Legend (1921–1940s)

The official founding date of the airport is considered to be 1921, when the federal government declared the area, then known as St Johns Fields, a Commonwealth aerodrome. Initially, it was just a large field used by the Victorian Aero Club. In those times, aviation was the domain of daredevils, and Essendon became home to pioneers of the Australian sky, including the famous Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, who repeatedly visited this airfield.

The Golden Age and the Olympic Games (1950–1960s)

The true flourishing of the airport began in 1950 when it was granted international status. During this period, Essendon became Melbourne's main link to the rest of the world. The most significant event of that decade was the 1956 Olympic Games. The airport received thousands of athletes and guests from all over the world, working at the limit of its capabilities and demonstrating Australian hospitality to the world.

It was during this period that the current Main Terminal was built, which is recognized today as an architectural monument. Its design embodies the optimism and progress of the post-war era.

The Beatles' Visit and a Historic Record

The loudest event in Essendon's history occurred on 14 June 1964. On this day, a plane carrying The Beatles landed here. An incredible crowd came to meet the "Fab Four" — according to various estimates, from 200,000 to 250,000 people. People filled not only the airport grounds but also the roofs of nearby houses and neighbouring streets. This moment is still considered one of the largest gatherings of people in Australian history related to the arrival of celebrities.

Sunset of the Era of Large Liners and Modernisation

By the end of the 1960s, it became obvious that Essendon could not cope with the advent of the jet aviation era. The short runways were unsuitable for huge Boeing 747s, and the location in a densely populated area limited expansion possibilities. In 1970, the new Tullamarine Airport opened, and international flights left Essendon.

For a long time, the airport remained in the shadows, serving only small aviation, until a large-scale revitalisation programme began in 2001 under the brand Essendon Fields. Private investors (the Fox and Beck families) turned the area into a unique complex combining aviation, commerce, and retail, whilst preserving the historical heritage.

Interesting Facts:

• Essendon Airport is the oldest operating airport in the state of Victoria.
• In 1987, the music video for one of Kylie Minogue's songs — Locomotion — was filmed here, forever capturing the terminal in pop culture.
• Despite losing its status as the main hub, the airport played a key role during Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Australia.
• In 2019, a multi-million dollar renovation of the Main Terminal was completed, returning the interiors to their historical splendour while adding modern amenities for regional passengers.

Since Essendon Airport (MEB) operates in a "boutique airport" format and serves primarily regional and private flights, the range of services here differs significantly from what passengers are used to in large international hubs. You will not find endless rows of Duty Free or noisy food courts here. Instead, the focus is on quality, speed, and the accessibility of the infrastructure of the surrounding Essendon Fields district.

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops

Inside the passenger terminal itself, the infrastructure is minimalist but sufficient for comfortably waiting for a short flight:

• In the Terminal: A small café-bar operates, where you can order fresh coffee, soft drinks, and light snacks before departure.
• Within Walking Distance (Essendon Fields): A true gastronomic paradise is located just a 2–5 minute walk from the terminal. Here you will find the famous supermarket-café LaManna — one of the best gourmet stores in Melbourne with a huge selection of fresh produce and ready-made food. The restaurant and bar Mr McCracken is also popular, offering modern Australian cuisine and an excellent wine list.
• Shopping: Next to the airport is the large outlet centre DFO Essendon, featuring branded clothing and footwear stores. This is a great opportunity to do some shopping if you have free time before your flight.

Lounges and VIP Services

The concept of Essendon assumes that passengers spend a minimum amount of time in the terminal. Nevertheless, the waiting conditions here are quite comfortable:

• General Lounge: Available to all passengers of scheduled flights. This is a bright space with comfortable seats, work desks, and a view of the runway.
• VIP and Business Aviation: Private jet passengers are served in separate terminals (FBOs), where luxurious lounges with personal service, privacy, and direct access to the aircraft are provided.

Connectivity and Finance

• Wi-Fi and Charging: Free wireless internet access is provided throughout the terminal. Power outlets and USB ports for charging gadgets are available in the lounge area.
• Banks and Currency Exchange: Since the airport serves domestic flights, currency exchange points within the terminal are absent. We recommend exchanging money in advance in the city or at the international Tullamarine Airport. ATMs are available in the neighbouring Essendon Fields shopping centre.

Services for Passengers with Children and Reduced Mobility

Essendon Airport is rightfully considered one of the most convenient for these categories of passengers due to its compactness and single-level layout.

• Accessible Environment: The main terminal has no stairs, escalators, or lifts needed to move between the entrance and the aircraft. The path from the parking lot to the check-in counter and further to boarding is completely barrier-free. Airline staff (Sharp Airlines, Link Airways) are always ready to assist with boarding the aircraft.
• For Parents: The terminal is equipped with parent rooms with changing tables. The calm atmosphere of the airport makes travelling with children less stressful than in major hubs.

Hotels and Accommodation

The main place for an overnight stay is the Hyatt Place Melbourne, Essendon Fields hotel (4 stars). It is located literally 100 metres from the terminal. The hotel offers modern rooms, a 24-hour fitness centre, and its own restaurant. This is an ideal option for those with an early flight or a business meeting in the area.

Business Services and Medical

• Conference Rooms: The Hyatt Place hotel has a modern conference centre for hosting events of any scale. Also, within the Essendon Fields business park, there are options for renting meeting rooms.
• Medical Assistance: In the immediate vicinity of the airport, the Essendon Fields Medical Centre, a dentist, and a pharmacy operate, allowing health issues to be resolved promptly if necessary.

The dining experience at Essendon Airport (MEB) differs significantly from the usual standard of "fast food and coffee in the departure zone". Thanks to its unique location within the commercial park Essendon Fields, passengers gain access to some of the best establishments in Northern Melbourne. Here, it is customary to arrive a little early not for security queues, but to enjoy an excellent lunch within walking distance of the terminal.

Inside the Main Terminal

In the departure zone itself, the choice is limited, which is due to the specifics of regional transport. The infrastructure is designed so that a passenger can have a snack immediately before boarding.

• Airport Café & Bar: Located in the General Lounge after the security zone (Airside). This is a cosy place with a view of the runway, offering:
  • Barista-quality coffee and tea.
  • Fresh pastries, sandwiches, wraps, and muffins.
  • Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer) for those wishing to relax before the flight.
• Operating Hours: Adjusted to the schedule of regular flights (opens before the first departure and closes after the last).
• Average Bill: 10–20 AUD for coffee and a snack.

Essendon Fields Gastronomic Quarter (Landside)

Real culinary life bustles outside the terminal. Just a 2–5 minute walk away are establishments worth visiting even if you are not flying anywhere. This is a free access zone (before passing security).

1. LaManna Supermarket & Café (For a quick and tasty snack)

This is not just a supermarket, but a legendary place in Melbourne, often called a "grocery boutique". Ideal for breakfast or lunch.

• What to try: Be sure to order their signature coffee and Italian pastries (cannoli or fresh croissants). The café area serves excellent paninis, salads, and hot dishes.
• Features: A huge selection of the freshest fruits and ready-made food for takeaway (Grab & Go).
• Location: About 3–4 minutes walk from the terminal.
• Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 to 19:00 (weekends until 18:00).

2. Mr McCracken (For a full lunch or dinner)

A stylish restaurant and bar located at the foot of the Hyatt Place hotel. This is a premium establishment with a relaxed atmosphere, perfectly suitable for business meetings or a farewell dinner before departure.

• Cuisine: Modern Australian with an Italian accent. The menu features steaks, wood-fired pizza, seafood, and signature cocktails.
• Average Bill: 40–80 AUD per person for a full meal.
• Location: 2 minutes walk from the terminal (across the road).
• Opening Hours: From 11:30 until late (daily).

3. Friction Café

A popular place among local pilots and airport staff. Located in a neighbouring building.

• Specialisation: Hearty breakfasts, brunches, burgers, and excellent coffee. The atmosphere is steeped in an aviation theme.
• Recommendation: A great choice if you have 30–40 minutes before check-in.

Dietary Needs and Special Requests

Melbourne is known for its attention to food culture, and Essendon Fields establishments are no exception:

• Vegetarian and Vegan: LaManna and Mr McCracken offer a wide selection of dishes without meat and animal products (marked in the menu as V/VG). LaManna supermarket always has fresh fruit cuts and vegan desserts.
• Gluten Free: Most cafés offer gluten-free bread for sandwiches and special desserts. Mr McCracken has GF options for pizza and pasta.
• Halal: Specialised certificates may not be prominently displayed, but the menu always includes fish and vegetarian dishes. It is recommended to check the ingredients of meat dishes with the staff.

Recommendations for Passengers

Since check-in and security at Essendon are very quick, we recommend not rushing to the "sterile zone". If you arrived an hour before departure, it is better to spend 40 minutes at Mr McCracken or LaManna, enjoying quality food, and proceed to the terminal 20 minutes before boarding. This will make your journey much more pleasant.

Travelling through a regional airport is a completely unique experience, distinct from the hustle of international hubs. Essendon Airport (MEB) offers comfort and speed, but dictates its own rules due to the type of aircraft and destinations. Here are a few tips to help make your flight as comfortable as possible.

When to Arrive at the Airport?

Forget the rule of "arriving 3 hours early". Everything happens much faster at Essendon. Since it is a small terminal:

• Optimal Time: Arrive 45–60 minutes before departure. This is plenty of time to check in luggage, have a coffee, and pass security.
• Critical Deadline: Check-in counters usually close strictly 30 minutes before departure (check with the specific airline, e.g., Sharp Airlines). If you are late, the plane will not wait.

Check-in and Security Features

The screening procedure here resembles a simplified version of control in large airports, but safety standards remain high.

• Documents: For domestic flights, a passport is not mandatory; an Australian driver's licence or other official photo ID is sufficient. However, we recommend international tourists always carry their passport.
• Liquids and Electronics: On domestic flights in Australia, rules for carrying liquids are often more relaxed than on international ones, however, aerosols must be capped. You will be asked to remove laptops and tablets from bags during screening.

Most Important: Hand Luggage and Baggage

This is the most critical point for Essendon passengers. Flights are operated on small turboprop aircraft (e.g., Fairchild Metroliner or Saab 340), where space is limited.

• Strict Weight: Check your ticket carefully. The hand luggage limit is often just 4–7 kg, and it is strictly checked. Excess baggage may simply not fit in the cabin.
• Bag Type: It is better to use soft bags or backpacks. Rigid carry-on suitcases of standard size might not fit in the overhead lockers or under the seat of a small plane. You may be asked to check such a suitcase into the hold right at the steps (a "Valet" or "Premium Hand Luggage" procedure).

Seat Selection on the Plane

In small planes, seating is often free (free seating) or assigned at check-in considering the aircraft's weight balance.

• For Best Views: If flying to the islands (King or Flinders), try to take a window seat. The flight takes place at a lower altitude than large liners, so views of Melbourne, Port Phillip Bay, and the ocean will be stunning.
• Noise: Turboprop planes can be noisy. If you are sensitive to sounds, bring noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Many tourists use Essendon as a connecting hub after arriving at the large international airport Tullamarine. It is important to remember that these are different airports, even though they are located nearby.

• Allow Time: There should be a minimum of 2.5–3 hours between landing at Tullamarine and departing from Essendon. You need to collect luggage, take a taxi (10–15 minutes), and check in again. There is no direct "airside" transfer (without entering the city) between the airports.

Biosecurity (Quarantine Rules)

If you are flying to Tasmania (King and Flinders Islands), remember the state's strict biosecurity rules.

• Prohibited: Bringing fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, and certain animal products. Serious fines apply for violations. Service dogs may operate at the airport. It is better to eat that apple or banana before boarding the plane.

How to Save Time and Money

• Food: Prices in the café inside the "sterile zone" may be higher, and the selection smaller. Experienced travellers visit the LaManna supermarket (a 3-minute walk from the terminal) before the flight to buy a tasty and inexpensive snack.
• Parking: If you rented a car, book parking at Essendon Airport online in advance — it is cheaper than paying on-site or leaving the car at Tullamarine.
• Transport: Do not spend money on a taxi from the centre if you have light luggage. The free shuttle from Essendon Station works like clockwork and drops you right at the entrance.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay?

Small aviation is more dependent on weather conditions (fog, strong wind) than large Boeings. If your flight is delayed:

Do not sit in the terminal. Go outside and walk to the DFO shopping centre — it's a great way to pass the time shopping. If the delay is long, head to the lobby bar of the Hyatt Place hotel, where the chairs are much more comfortable and there is a full menu.