Home / Crime and Justice / Tyre Spikes Foil Airport Car Thieves
Tyre Spikes Foil Airport Car Thieves
12 Jun
Summary
- Airport installed $3.5 million tyre spikes to combat car theft.
- Car thefts at Melbourne Airport doubled in 2025, reaching 140 vehicles.
- Spikes have already stopped two attempted thefts since installation.
Melbourne Airport has implemented a significant security upgrade, installing $3.5 million worth of tyre spikes at car park exits to combat a rise in vehicle theft. The airport's parking facilities had become a prime target for car thieves, particularly affecting travellers away from home. Data revealed that car thefts at the airport nearly doubled from 77 in 2024 to 140 in 2025.
Thieves commonly used key-cloning devices to access push-button start vehicles, often crashing through security barriers. In some cases, they tracked vehicles to owners' homes for further burglaries. The tyre spikes, introduced three weeks ago, have already demonstrated their effectiveness, stopping thieves on two occasions.
Victoria is currently experiencing a sharp increase in car theft, with more insurance claims lodged in Melbourne than all other capitals combined last year. This surge is partly attributed to sophisticated key-cloning technology. To counter this, Victoria Police recommends anti-theft measures like diagnostic port locks and conducts targeted operations.
The airport stated that the tyre spikes are part of an ongoing investment in passenger vehicle protection, and they work closely with law enforcement to enhance airport security. This measure aims to deter criminals and improve the safety of vehicles parked at the airport.
