At a time of some uncertainty in air travel, a bit of good news out of Melbourne Airport today. The Victorian hub has recorded its busiest-ever February for international flights, with 996,677 passengers passing through the airport during the month – up 7.1 per cent on last year. The figure surpasses the previous record set in February 2025.
Meanwhile, domestic travel also edged higher, with 1.83 million passengers moving through the airport’s three domestic terminals over the four weeks. However, domestic traffic is still below 2019 levels.
“While increasing year-on-year, domestic travel continues to track below pre-COVID levels as budget-conscious travellers take advantage of cheaper international fare offerings,” Melbourne Airport Chief of Aviation Jim Parashos said.
South Asia surge
As Tullamarine experiences record international traffic, the hub has also confirmed that SriLankan Airlines will increase capacity on its Melbourne-Colombo route to ten services a week, up from a daily operation.
Adding more than 92,000 seats each year, the carrier will now fly twice daily on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, using its Airbus A330-300 aircraft.
The extra flights will land in Colombo at 12:15pm, opening up smooth onward connections.
“Amidst the current global uncertainty, it is pleasing to see SriLankan Airlines committing more capacity to Melbourne and increasing the opportunities for international connection,” Parashos said.
“SriLankan Airlines has been a long-term partner of Melbourne Airport and we know these flights will make it easier than ever before to connect with one of our region’s most vibrant countries.
“The competition in the international market is driving better outcomes for travellers, with more international carriers than ever delivering more choice for travellers.”
SriLankan Airlines’ Head of Commercial, Dimuthu Tennakoon, said the carrier had seen “steady growth” on the Melbourne route and forecast more capacity Down Under.
“Melbourne has a special place in our hearts, not only because it is home to a large number of fellow SriLankans, but also because it was the destination that marked a historic milestone in our entry into the Australian market,” he remarked.
“We are optimistic that this increase in frequency will pave the way for future expansions.”
On top of a rise in outbound travel, the additional frequency could also see a potential boost to Victorian tourism from South Asia.
In February, Melbourne Airport revealed major new growth plans. What can passengers and the public expect from the massive $4.5 billion expansion?
KARRYON UNPACKS: International travel through Melbourne Airport keeps surging, especially to South and Southeast Asia. Domestic growth, however, isn’t flying as high. For travel advisors, that contrast matters. Australians seem to be prioritising overseas trips in 2026, and airlines are adding capacity where demand is strongest.
