More London flights: major UK airline returns to Melbourne after 20-year hiatus

In a milestone move, the United Kingdom and southern Australia will soon be better connected as a major airline begins flying into the region.

British Airways will return to Melbourne international airport in January 2027, flying to London Heathrow via Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The carrier will launch daily flights from January 11, on a Boeing Dreamliner 787-9 featuring four classes - first, business, premium economy and economy.

British Airways used to operate a route to London from Melbourne via Singapore but this was suspended in 2006.

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Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus welcomed British Airways back to Melbourne.

"British Airways is one of the world's most recognisable airlines and in its more than 100 years of flying has earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence and reliability," she said.

"With the largest choice of airlines flying to the UK and Europe, 24-hour operations and the shortest minimum connection time of any Australian airport, Melbourne Airport is now the clear choice for Europeans heading to Australia or Australians looking to travel abroad."

Melbourne Airport's international terminal will undergo a $4.5 million upgrade making it Australia's largest 24-hour international gateway.

The works will also expand the international terminal including its check-in area, and build new baggage claim halls.

Five new gates will be added to the international pier, giving airlines flexibility for flight scheduling.

Melbourne Airport had record international passengers in January with 1.26 million passing through its doors.