Western Sydney Airport, due to open in 2026, has entered a memoranda of understanding with the Qantas Group and Virgin Australia Group.
The MOUs will see the airlines provide insights into designing and planning Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, as well as having early discussions around future Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Tigerair services using the airport.
Western Sydney Airport chief executive officer Graham Millett described the MOU as a tremendous vote of confidence in Sydney’s new international airport from Australia’s airlines.
“The insights we’ll gain from working with the airlines will help us build an airport that people will love using,” said Millett. “Australian airlines have long been advocates of Western Sydney gaining its own airport. We look forward to working with them as we deliver jobs and opportunities to the region.”
According to Qantas Group chief executive officer Alan Joyce, Western Sydney International is an important part of Australia’s aviation future: “Given the size and significance of New South Wales to the national economy, a second airport is exactly what we need to keep growing. The potential is huge.
“It’s not often you get to help design an airport from scratch, so we’re really pleased to be part of it. This a chance to create a great experience for passengers and a high level of efficiency for airlines, which helps us keep fares lower.”
The MOU will see the organizations collaborate on elements including: passenger terminal and boarding; technology and innovation, particularly around baggage handling, security and customer service; airport access; and sustainability, including resource reuse and recycling.
When Western Sydney International opens, it will be the closest airport for around 2.5 million people. The MOUs represent a significant next step in the development of Sydney’s new international airport.
