Australian Grand Prix 2025: Business Aviation Planning Guide

Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (YMML) – The Primary Choice

As Melbourne’s main international airport, YMML operates 24/7 and serves as the primary airport for business aviation during the Grand Prix. It’s located 14 miles (25 minutes) from Albert Park, making it a convenient choice. However, with increased air traffic, delays are possible.

Key Considerations:

• No slot or PPR requirements – Flexibility in scheduling.
• Customs & Immigration (CIQ) available 24/7 – Off-Terminal Clearance (OTC) is an option but must be pre-arranged.
• 11,998-foot runway – Suitable for all aircraft types.
• No dedicated FBO facilities – All services are arranged through ground handling agents.
• Better fuel pricing – Typically lower than other Melbourne-area airports.

If you require 24-hour services and customs clearance, YMML is your best bet. However, aircraft parking may be limited, and alternative options should be considered.

Essendon Fields Airport (YMEN) – The Closer Option (With Restrictions)

View of Melbourne skyline from Essendon

Located just 7.8 miles (30 minutes) from Albert Park, Essendon Airport (YMEN) offers a convenient alternative for operators who don’t require full 24/7 services. Historically a domestic airport, YMEN can accommodate international GA flights only with prior approval, and customs clearance depends on the availability of officers from YMML.

Key Considerations:

• Closer to downtown and the Grand Prix venue – Shorter drive times.
• Great GA parking availability – Often less expensive than YMML.
• Runway length of 6,302 feet – May not accommodate larger aircraft.
• Weight limit of 50,000 kg (110,231 lbs) – Heavier aircraft cannot operate here.
• Strict curfew from 2300-0600 local – No movements during these hours unless an exemption applies.

Who Should Choose YMEN?

YMEN is a good option for smaller aircraft that meet the weight limits and don’t require late-night operations. However, parking tends to be easier to secure, making it a cost-effective alternative for operators who plan ahead.

Avalon Airport (YMAV) – The Overflow Option

If YMML and YMEN reach capacity, Avalon Airport (YMAV) is a reliable alternative. Located 50-60 minutes from central Melbourne, it offers ample parking and 24-hour operations. However, YMAV is a domestic-only airport, meaning international arrivals must first clear customs at an airport of entry (AOE) before repositioning here.

Best for: Operators needing long-term parking without the congestion of YMML and YMEN.

Airspace Restrictions & Helicopter Operations

With high helicopter activity and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) displays, Melbourne’s airspace will see temporary restrictions during race week.

Key Airspace Changes for 2025:

• TRA R990 (“Track Unicom”) – Covers the Albert Park circuit for helicopter movements. Pilots must register with Professional Helicopter Services (PHS) and monitor 127.00 MHz.
• TRA R992 (“Air Display”) – Reserved for RAAF show flights; restricted access except for approved aircraft.
• TRA Activation Times (Local Time):
  • Track Unicom: Daily, 0800 – 1830
  • Air Display:
    • Friday: 1425 – 1450
    • Saturday: 1535 – 1600
    • Sunday: 1055 – 1120, 1425 – 1455

During air display periods, Track Unicom airspace will be sanitized, meaning only emergency, radio-failure, or life-saving flights will be allowed.

Helicopters landing at Albert Park require prior approval from Professional Helicopter Services (PHS).

Landing Permits & Compliance

• Private non-revenue flights – No landing permits required.
• Charter (non-scheduled commercial) flights – Must obtain non-scheduled flight permission from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
• Lead time: Minimum 5 business days.
• Frequent charter operators – Must also submit a CASA 094 document and a Transportation Safety Program (TSP) application (60-day lead time).

Ground Support & Fuel Considerations

• YMML, YMEN, and YMAV offer full GA ground handling and fueling.
• Advance fueling requests are highly recommended, especially at YMML and YMEN.
• Melbourne Jet Base at YMML has over 85,000 sqm of apron and hangar space, capable of handling aircraft up to an A380.

Customs, Immigration & Visas

• All passengers and crew must have a visa before arrival. Some nationalities can apply online, others require embassy-issued visas.
• CIQ Clearance:
  • YMML: Main terminal processing, with a dedicated crew clearance line.
  • YMEN: Must be pre-approved 10 days in advance.
  • Melbourne Jet Base at YMML offers a private CIQ processing facility.
• Quarantine Rules: All fresh/unprocessed food must be disposed of upon landing unless pre-approved by an Australian quarantine officer.

Hotels & Local Transport

• Luxury hotels fill up fast – Book 4- and 5-star crew accommodations early.
• Pre-arranged transport is highly recommended – Chauffeured cars and rental vehicles are available at all three airports.

Key Takeaways

• Expect heavy demand for parking and accommodations – Plan early.
• YMML is the best airport for full-service operations and 24/7 access.
• YMEN is closer but has weight limits and a strict curfew.
• Helicopter flights require pre-approval due to new restricted airspace zones.
• Charter flights require permits – Apply at least five days in advance.
• View the official AIP here.

With tight airspace restrictions, limited parking, and increased demand, early planning is essential for smooth operations at the 2025 Melbourne Grand Prix.