Qantas Group and Western Sydney International Airport Sign Agreement
In a landmark move, Qantas and Jetstar, two of Australia’s leading airlines, have confirmed they will operate domestic flights from the forthcoming Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI). The airport is set to open its doors in late 2026, representing a new era of aviation in the region.
Significant Increase in Aircraft and Job Opportunities
The Qantas Group aims to operate as many as 15 narrowbody aircraft (10 for Jetstar and 5 for Qantas) from WSI within the first year of its operation. This will facilitate domestic routes like Melbourne, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast. As a result, an estimated four million passengers will be transported via WSI per year on over 25,000 flights. The development is expected to generate about 700 operational jobs, with local recruitment beginning in the run-up to the inaugural flights.
Growing Air Traffic Demand in Western Sydney
Qantas Group CEO, Alan Joyce, stated that Western Sydney Airport would be a significant growth opportunity for the group, as it complements existing operations in the Sydney basin and nationally. The Western Sydney region currently accounts for more than two million trips per year, indicating strong demand for the new flights. Moreover, WSI’s strategic advantages, including no curfew, rapid aircraft turnaround, and a next-generation baggage system, add to its potential for success.
Western Sydney International Airport’s Future Expansion
WSI CEO, Simon Hickey, declared that the airport is designed for growth and will eventually become Sydney’s biggest airport. The aim is to expand to accommodate up to 82 million annual passengers, putting it on par with some of the world’s major airports like Dubai and London Heathrow.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Initiatives
In an effort to reduce the carbon footprint of the aviation industry, both the airport and the airlines have agreed to collaborate on projects that can supply WSI with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). SAF can lower emissions by up to 80% on a lifecycle basis compared to fossil fuels, and is thus integral to the aviation industry’s decarbonisation efforts.
Community Impact and Local Economic Stimulus
WSI is not only expected to serve all of Sydney but will also significantly benefit communities across Western Sydney. To date, the project has already invested over $400 million in businesses based in the region. Half of the workforce bringing the airport to life are Western Sydney locals, with almost a third gaining valuable experience through apprenticeships, traineeships, and other vocational training.
