Airport

Melbourne Essendon Airport

Melbourne Essendon Airport — Melbourne Essendon Airport MEB / YMEN

The oldest airport in Melbourne (founded in 1921), today serving business aviation, charter flights and general aviation. Located ~13 km from the city center.

City: Melbourne, Australia
Time zone: AEST UTC+10 / AEDT UTC+11
Official website

History

1921

Opening of Essendon Airport — the first major airport of Melbourne, with great strategic importance.

1920–1930s

Infrastructure development: runways, hangars, terminals. Launch of scheduled flights by Australian carriers.

1939–1945

World War II: used as a military base and training center for aviation.

1940–1960s

Main air gateway to Melbourne until the opening of Tullamarine Airport (1970).

From 1970s

Shifted to business and general aviation role, charter operators, flying schools and air ambulance base.

Today

Essendon Fields complex: business cluster, modern infrastructure for VIP passengers and corporate flights.

Key facts

13 km to Melbourne city center
Focus: business jets, charter, GA
Base for air ambulance services
Flying schools and MRO companies

Note: check operational restrictions (noise, slots, procedures) with airport administration.

Modern significance

Essendon serves as a specialized hub for business and general aviation in Melbourne. Charter operators, air ambulance services, flight schools and maintenance companies are based here. Surrounding the airport is Essendon Fields — a business cluster with offices, retail and services.

Business aviation

VIP handling, corporate flights, FBO services and fast ground procedures.

Emergency support

Air ambulance base for fast medical transport across the state and interstate.

Pilot training

Flying schools, simulators and training programs for GA and commercial aviation.

Essendon Fields

Business cluster with offices, retail and services, integrated with the airport.

MEB / YMEN
AEST UTC+10
AEDT UTC+11
essendonairport.com.au

FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Essendon Airport located?

In Essendon Fields, approximately 13 km northwest of Melbourne CBD.

What type of traffic does the airport handle?

Business aviation, charter flights and general aviation.

Is the airport open 24/7?

Yes, access for business and emergency aviation is available 24/7; check restrictions with airport administration.

Are there regular international flights?

No. International scheduled flights are operated from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine). Private flights may operate with approval.

How to get there from Melbourne city center?

By car in 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi, private transfers and car rentals are available.

What are Essendon’s codes?

IATA: MEB, ICAO: YMEN.

Is pilot training available?

Yes, several flight schools and training programs operate here.

Is there commercial infrastructure nearby?

Yes, Essendon Fields is a developed business hub with offices, retail and services.

What is the official website?

essendonairport.com.au

When was the airport founded?

In 1921; it was Melbourne’s main airport until the opening of Tullamarine (1970).

Information is for reference purposes. Always check official NOTAMs and procedures before flights or operations.

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