SkyBus is set to roll into Western Australia for the first time from 3 November 2025, with Perth Airport awarding the operator a decade-long contract to run its ground transport services.
The deal brings a fleet of 11 SkyBus-branded vehicles to Perth, including two battery electric buses, with plans to fully electrify the service within the contract term. But based on the photos the company has shared, the brand’s famous red has been replaced by a shade of blue for WA.
Owned by transport giant Kinetic, SkyBus is best known for its Melbourne Airport express services but has steadily grown its footprint.
It now operates at airports in Melbourne, Hobart, Auckland and Adelaide, with Sydney services announced in September.
Kinetic says it has made sustainability a key pillar of its airport operations. It has committed to converting its Melbourne SkyBus fleet to 100% electric by 2031 and Sydney operations by 2030. Perth’s new buses will be supported by depot infrastructure to prepare for the full transition.
Kinetic Executive General Manager (WA), Sarah Ismail, said the partnership marks a milestone for the company in the west and aligns with Perth Airport’s growth trajectory.
“This contract allows us to support Perth Airport’s ambitious growth and expansions plans whilst delivering the operational excellence and sustainability leadership that SkyBus is known for across Australia,” she remarked.
“Transitioning to a fully electric fleet demonstrates our commitment to sustainable airport transport and positions Perth Airport at the forefront of clean transport innovation.”
Ismail added that investment in electric buses shows Kinetic’s long-term commitment to the state.
“We are a regional leader in bus electrification, we’re excited to bring zero-emissions bussing to Perth Airport from day one, delivering quieter, cleaner transport for passengers,” she stated.
Perth Airport Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer, Kate Holsgrove, welcomed the deal, noting that SkyBus’s experience transporting millions of passengers annually across Australia and New Zealand will deliver reliable, high-quality service.
“SkyBus has an outstanding track record in delivering services within the Australian aviation industry, so we look forward to partnering with their experienced team to ensure a seamless experience for our passengers.
“We will also work with Kinetic to transition the entire operation to 100% electric within the contract term aligning with Perth Airport’s commitment to net-zero by 2032.”
The expansion cements Perth as SkyBus’s sixth major airport location.
