Infrastructure Minister emphasized the opening as a milestone for Sydney, highlighting the Nancy-Bird Walton Terminal and adjacent cargo/business precincts as job creators and a regional hub.

The new airport is designed to boost overall flights to the Sydney basin and complement existing services at Kingsford Smith Airport.

Local Western Sydney MPs welcomed the project as a milestone for the region’s role as a gateway to the world.

The site spans about 1,780 hectares and is projected to handle up to 8.4 million passengers annually by 2030 and around 19.3 million by 2045, signaling strong growth relative to Kingsford Smith.

WSI aims to position itself as a curfew-free international hub, with potential Gulf carrier access expanding due to UAE air-rights allowing up to seven weekly flights.

Launch fares are pitched in the region of $59-$75 for Western Sydney to Melbourne, with Qantas promos from $99 in economy and $299 in business to mark the opening.

Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) will open to passengers in October 2026, with the Nancy-Bird Walton terminal hosting its first travelers.

Jetstar will launch the first commercial flights from WSI on opening day, routing to the Gold Coast, Melbourne and Brisbane, while Qantas groups plan limited domestic services from later dates.

The inaugural passenger services will begin in October, followed soon after by additional domestic routes and launches as the airport transitions to full operations.

Freight operations are slated to begin in July ahead of passenger services, with a new cargo precinct supporting the runways.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged the 15-year journey from study to opening, thanking tens of thousands involved in delivering the project.

WSI’s domestic ticket launch signals confidence in the airport and Greater Sydney’s air travel future, according to the chief executive.