Melbourne Airport passenger performance March 2018

International traveller volumes increase by 16.5 per cent compared to March 2017.

In March Melbourne Airport celebrated nine years of consecutive traveller growth, as more than three million holidaymakers journeyed through Melbourne, an increase of seven per cent compared to the same time last year.

Scores of people took advantage of the early Easter break, which helped send international passenger volumes to more than 900,000, a rise of 16.5 per cent compared to March 2017.

Domestic passenger traffic was also strong with 2.24 million people flying in and out of Melbourne, almost four per cent higher than the same time last year.

Melbourne Airport CEO Lyell Strambi said the booming passenger growth underpins the airport's need for a third runway.

"Nine years of consecutive passenger growth is no flash in the pan. It is an extraordinary milestone and underlines the need to construct a third runway in order to keep up with traveller demand and the needs of the state," said Mr Strambi.

"We are seeing more airlines introduce new non-stop long-haul services making international travel cheaper, with more choices for more people than ever before.

"We know Victoria's visitor numbers and spend are growing faster than any other state in Australia and we will continue to play a vital role in enabling nation-wide and international connections."

Visit Victoria CEO Peter Bingeman congratulated Melbourne Airport for the impressive passenger numbers and fantastic growth.

"It is a testament to the various world-class offerings, from events to music, fashion and more, that Melbourne continues its rapid growth as a top tourism destination for interstate and overseas visitors."

"Melbourne is also the gateway to Victoria's world-class wineries, natural springs, peninsulas, spectacular coastline and alpine villages, so it's no wonder the visitors keep flocking here to enjoy those fantastic experiences."

Mr Strambi said the airport is focused on delivering outcomes that enhance the traveller experience from highway to runway.

"Our rising traveller numbers directly correlate with vehicle movements on our road network, so it is important we continuously improve our car park products and forecourt," said Mr Strambi.

"A combination of reducing our drive-up parking prices, investing in new free pick-up areas, and changing the lanes of our forecourt are all working together to bust congestion and make it easier than ever to get to the airport.

"We will continue to invest in our facilities to attract more airlines and improve infrastructure for the benefit of our travellers."