Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport welcomed its first international passengers on October 26, 2026, with the arrival of Air New Zealand flight NZ165 from Auckland. The milestone came one day after the airport officially opened with Jetstar domestic passenger services, making it Australia’s first major new international airport in 50 years.
Situated at Badgerys Creek, approximately 60 kilometers west of central Sydney, the airport operates around the clock. Unlike Sydney’s existing Kingsford Smith Airport, where a curfew restricts takeoffs and landings between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., the new facility offers airlines greater scheduling flexibility. Its official name commemorates Nancy Bird Walton, Australia’s first female commercial pilot.
Domestic and international gates occupy a single terminal, with automated check-in and baggage-handling technology intended to streamline passenger journeys. Initial capacity stands at 10 million passengers annually. The airport says that capacity could eventually exceed 80 million, potentially making it Australia’s primary gateway.
Ground transportation options include public buses, taxis, app-based ride services, and rental cars, while motorists can access the airport via the toll-free M12. Singapore Airlines is scheduled to introduce daily services to Singapore on November 23.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the opening as a milestone following decades of preparation. He emphasized its significance for employment and investment in one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions, presenting the project as more than the addition of a runway and terminal.
