Virgin Australia priority screening is changing
Virgin Australia is introducing major upgrades to Premium Entry and security screening across the domestic network. These improvements aim to reduce congestion, speed up movement through airports and create a more efficient journey for frequent flyers.
Here is what is changing and how it may affect your upcoming business trips.
Priority screening expands across Australia
Virgin Australia is extending access to priority screening lanes at more airports and during more of the day. This will provide eligible travellers with a faster, streamlined path from check-in to the departure gate.
Key enhancements include:
- New screening technology that allows laptops and devices to remain in bags
- Extended hours at major business travel airports
- Improved traveller flow and reduced wait times during peak periods
These changes apply to Business Class passengers and eligible Velocity members (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Plus).
Airport breakdown
Airport | Access Days | Priority Screening Hours | Start / Status | Notes |
| Sydney | Weekdays only | 5:00–10:00am and 2:00–7:00pm | Starts 15 Dec 2025 | Lounge Premium Entry permanently closes 19 Dec 2025 |
| Melbourne | Weekdays only | 5:00–10:00am and 2:00–7:00pm | Starts 15 Dec 2025 | — |
| Brisbane | Daily access | All day | Starts 15 Dec 2025 | Temporary route via central mezzanine screening; Lounge Premium Entry closes 19 Dec 2025 and reopens late 2026 |
| Perth | Daily access | All day | Starts 15 Dec 2025 | — |
| Adelaide | Daily access | All day | Available now | — |
| Gold Coast | Daily access | All day | Available now | — |
Changes to Premium Entry
- As part of the transition to an expanded priority-screening experience:
- Sydney Lounge Premium Entry will permanently close after 19 December 2025
- Brisbane Lounge Premium Entry will temporarily close after 19 December 2025, returning late 2026 following refurbishment
- Virgin Australia is investing in future-focused processes that maintain an elevated experience for high-value travellers.
Why this matters
Airport efficiencies can have a significant impact on the quality and productivity of a work trip. Faster, more predictable security screening supports:
- Reduced time in queues
- Smoother same-day travel
- Lower stress for travellers
- Better use of time before departure
For businesses with frequent flyers, this rollout provides a stronger foundation for on-time performance and traveller wellbeing.
What to prepare for
To ensure a seamless transition
- Travellers previously using Sydney kerb-side Premium Entry will now access security through the main terminal
- Brisbane travellers will follow a temporary entry route during upgrades
- Outside weekday priority windows in Sydney and Melbourne, travellers may need to allow additional time
- Travel bookers should confirm eligibility criteria for priority-screening access
Need more information?
If you have travellers regularly flying through these airports or want help adjusting your travel program, speak with your Corporate Traveller Travel Manager or reach out to one of our travel experts. We are here to make sure you get the most from your airline benefits and keep your people moving with confidence.
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