SkyBus frequently asked questions
Do you have a question about travelling on the SkyBus airport shuttle? We’ve answered some frequently asked questions to assist you.
Location
Where do I get on the SkyBus?
You can board SkyBus at either end of our express route that runs every 24/7 with day departures every 10 minutes:
- At Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine). We’re kerbside at ‘Arrivals’ for international and domestic flights. View map.
- In the heart of Melbourne at Southern Cross Station. The SkyBus terminal is on the corner of Bourke and Spencer Streets. View map.
Does SkyBus operate a service to Avalon Airport?
No. The express SkyBus service only operates between Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Southern Cross Station in Melbourne’s city centre.
Does SkyBus operate other routes such as between Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Frankston, Dandenong or the eastern suburbs?
SkyBus operates a single route express between Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Southern Cross Station in the city centre, 24/7 with day departures every 10 minutes.
However, SkyBus also connects with all suburban and country rail services and trams and other bus services at the Southern Cross Station bus interchange.
Ticketing
Do I need to book to travel on SkyBus?
No, reservations or bookings are not required to travel on SkyBus. Buses run 24/7 with day departures every 10 minutes. You can pay on the day of travel or purchase and print your tickets online in advance.
However, you will need to book in advance if you wish for the SkyBus Hotel Transfer Service to collect you from selected hotels in central Melbourne upon your departure. Ask your concierge to call SkyBus on +61 3 9600 1711 and quote your room number. It is advisable to book your pickup as early as possible. We can take bookings up to one hour prior to departure (subject to availability). Bookings must be made during Hotel Transfer Service operating hours (Mon-Fri 6.00am - 10.30pm, Sat-Sun 7.30am - 5.30pm, this service does not operate on Christmas Day, 25 Dec).
How much does it cost to travel on SkyBus?
A SkyBus ticket is the best value Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Melbourne city transfer, with a one-way ticket approximately 70 per cent less than the average taxi fare. View our fares.
Where do I buy SkyBus tickets?
You can purchase and print your tickets online. You can also purchase tickets from SkyBus ticket booths at our city terminal at Southern Cross Station, and at Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) terminals T1 and T3.
The Metshop at Melbourne Town Hall on the corner of Collins and Swanston Streets, Melbourne sells Metcards or myki cards.
Can I pay for my SkyBus tickets with EFTPOS or credit card?
Yes you can. You can purchase your tickets online using your credit card 24/7. You can also use your credit card or EFTPOS to purchase tickets from our SkyBus booths at Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Southern Cross Station. These booths are also open 24/7.
Can I use my one-way SkyBus ticket in either direction?
Yes, one-way tickets can be used in either direction to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) or to Southern Cross Station in the centre of Melbourne city.
If I purchase a return trip SkyBus ticket, can I use it for two adults one way?
No, a return trip ticket is to be used on two separate journeys: to or from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), and to or from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne city.
How long is my SkyBus ticket valid for?
SkyBus tickets purchased online or at a SkyBus booth are valid for three months from the date of purchase. Our 10 trip tickets are valid for 12 months from date of purchase. All pre-printed tickets have an expiry date printed on the ticket.
Timing
What times does SkyBus depart?
SkyBus runs 24/7 with day departures every 10 minutes. View the SkyBus timetable.
How much time should I allow myself before departure to catch a SkyBus?
Allow yourself at least five minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to purchase your ticket(s) and board the SkyBus.
How do I know which SkyBus to catch to get to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) on time?
In general, an express SkyBus trip takes 20 minutes* from Southern Cross Station to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine).
If you are using our free city SkyBus Hotel Transfer Service, allow one hour between hotel pickup time and arrival at the airport.
Also ensure that you allow enough time to meet your airline’s check in requirements.
Access
How do I get to and from my hotel from the drop-off point at Southern Cross Station?
The SkyBus Hotel Transfer Service is our free mini-bus service that transports you between selected hotels in central Melbourne and the SkyBus city terminal at Southern Cross Station (conditions apply). It’s also suitable if you have restricted mobility.
Can I get picked up on the way to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) or from a private residence?
SkyBus does not pick up passengers at any other stops other than our terminals at Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Southern Cross Station.
Is SkyBus easy to access by wheelchair?
Both the SkyBus and our Hotel Transfer Service mini-buses are 100 per cent mobility-enhanced, providing excellent access for wheelchair passengers.
Please call SkyBus on +61 3 9600 1711 the day before you travel to confirm if you need wheelchair access if using the SkyBus Hotel Transfer Service.
Can my companion travel with me?
SkyBus will issue companion cardholders with a second ticket for their companion to travel at no charge.
Do you accept Vision Impaired Travel Passes?
Free travel is available for Vision Impaired Travel Pass holders. Free travel is only available to accompanying attendants if the vision impaired person holds a Companion Card.
Luggage and lost property
Can I consume food and drink on the bus?
Consumption of food or drinks (except water in scew top containers) is not permitted on board our vehicles. The transportation of hot food and hot drink, irrespective of the container/vessel used is also prohibited on-board. This is in the best interest of all passenger safety and comfort.
Can I bring cats or dogs on SkyBus?
Pets are not permitted on-board SkyBus. Guide dogs, hearing guide dogs or guide dogs in training and animals covered by the Assistance Animal Pass (must be available and produced on request) will be permitted to travel on SkyBus.
How much luggage can I take on SkyBus?
All SkyBus vehicles are equipped with on-board luggage storage, however there are luggage limits. This includes:
- One suitcase and one carry on bag;
- Additional items (such as bikes, surf boards or very large items) will be permitted, subject to availability of space on a relevant trip. Bikes can be carried on-board if dismantled and secured in a container.
Who do I contact for lost property?
For lost property at Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) contact the information desk between 9 am and 5 pm weekdays on +61 3 9297 1805.
For lost property on SkyBus phone us on +61 3 9335 2811.
For lost property at Southern Cross Station phone +61 3 9619 1624.
* Times may vary due to traffic conditions. Times of departure may alter without notice.