Qantas passengers will benefit from a major upgrade of security screening technology at Melbourne Airport, with works underway to deliver a smoother, enhanced experience for travellers.
Stage one of the project began this week, with construction of a new temporary screening point at the eastern end of the Qantas domestic terminal.
When the temporary screening point opens in August, Qantas domestic passengers will no longer need to remove laptops, tablets or aerosols from their carry-on luggage.
The temporary screening point will facilitate the refurbishment of the existing screening point, with each of the six lanes to be rebuilt with new baggage screening and body scanning technology.
The upgrade will bring the Qantas domestic terminal into line with Melbourne Airport’s other domestic terminals and helps deliver on a federal government requirement to strengthen aviation security.
Melbourne Airport Chief of Aviation Jim Parashos said screening enhancement would help deliver Qantas customers a world-class terminal experience.
“The Qantas domestic terminal at Melbourne Airport already boasts what we believe is the best food and beverage offering in the country,” he said.
“We have also spent tens of millions of dollars upgrading passenger amenities to increase their capacity, and improve accessibility, including the installation of adult change facilities, all gender bathrooms and assistance animal relief areas.
“Introducing the latest security equipment is the final piece of the puzzle and will transform the Qantas domestic terminal at Melbourne Airport into a first-class facility.
“Installing this new security equipment while keeping the terminal operational is a significant logistics challenge, and we thank passengers for their patience and understanding while we undertake this work.”
Qantas Executive Manager Global Airports Darsh Chapman said the upgrade would make Melbourne customers’ travel experience smoother and easier.
“We know our customers love travelling through Melbourne and visiting the Qantas Lounges, cafes and shops,” Ms Chapman said.
“These new security screening points will mean customers no longer need to spend time taking laptops and other items out of carry-on luggage which simplifies the process.”
Subject to Airport Building Controller approvals, work on the project is expected to be completed by December 2025.