Prime Minister of Australia

08/27/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/26/2024 17:34

Connecting Western Sydney to the world

Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) has landed its first international airline, with Singapore Airlines confirming its intention to operate from the airport and connect Western Sydney passengers to the world.

This new commercial arrangement allows Singapore Airlines to begin developing its future operations at WSI, helping Australians wing their way to one of the largest transportation hubs in Asia.

With more than 80 per cent of the airport's construction now complete, WSI is getting closer to take off, welcoming airlines and passengers from late 2026.

WSI will welcome up to 10 million annual passengers a year. It will offer an integrated domestic and international terminal, in addition to Business Precinct and Aviation Support Facilities, including cargo.

Australia has completed successful bilateral air services negotiations with a number of countries recently including Samoa and Tonga, and in the last 12 months with Türkiye, Vietnam, Sri Lanka.

These agreements have increased capacity immediately available to international airlines operating to and from Australia by more than 50 services a week - and by 100 services per week over the next two years.

Bilateral air services negotiations continue with a number of other countries, with a particular focus on seeking to increase available capacity in the Asia Pacific region.

Construction of WSI is delivering more than 9,000 jobs and half a billion dollars' in contracts to Western Sydney businesses.

Comments attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

"From Singapore's Marina Bay to Sydney's Badgerys Creek, this shows the bright future ahead for Western Sydney International.

"Connecting Western Sydney with the world, while boosting jobs, skills and opportunities right across this region."

Comments attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King

"This strategic partnership recognises WSI's status as a world-class international airport and new gateway to Asia.

"Tourism is a major contributor for Sydney and Australia, with WSI a major contributor to opportunities for jobs and local businesses."