AN AIRPORT rail line ­between Melbourne and ­Tullamarine would bring social, economic and environmental benefits to Moonee Valley, according to a group of Avondale Heights residents.

The passionate members of the group, ­Support Melbourne Airport Rail Link, are determined to see a link built.

Campaign leader Ordan Andreevski said an airport rail link would deliver ­benefits not just to plane passengers, but to residents in Moonee Valley.

“There are so many benefits to a project like this. There’s the economic value in terms of reducing travel times and helping ­people reaching jobs,” Mr Andreevski said.

“There’s the social aspect, connecting citizens to the CBD and other facilities, and, of course, the airport.”

In April, the State ­Government announced a $10 million assessment on the need for an airport rail link to operate in partnership with the private sector.

Mr Andreevski said the group was working on a stakeholders’ survey to ­measure the level of support for the project.

He said several stakeholders had already thrown support behind the project, including Highpoint Shopping Centre, the RACV and Moonee Valley Council.

Moonee Valley Mayor ­Andrea Surace said an airport rail link would better connect the people of Moonee Valley by providing opportunities for employment, education and travel and she congratulated members of the Support Melbourne Airport Rail Link group for their efforts.

“It’s clear that our community, along with the Support Melbourne Airport Rail Link group, shares our vision,” Cr Surace said.

“As always we encourage our community to speak up about issues that are important to them and we applaud this community group for their efforts to help improve livability within our municipality.”

Niddrie state Labor MP Ben Carroll said the airport rail link could only be made possible by building the Metro Tunnel and unclogging the City Loop.

“I’m pleased both the State and Federal governments have committed earlier this year to partner on a business case for the airport rail link,” he said.

“Our local community having a voice and being heard is vital.”