Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport has ticked off a major milestone, completing construction of its runway and key airside infrastructure. The works, which include taxiways, lighting, drainage, fencing and landscaping, mark the first finished major piece of the future 24/7 Western Sydney Airport.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the achievement signals the shift from heavy construction to airport testing and operational readiness, with the project still on track to open for domestic, international and cargo flights in late 2026.
“The work to build our runway and supporting airside facilities has been years in the making – during which workers have literally moved mountains to create a modern, technology-enabled airfield that will soon welcome planes and passengers,” he said.
“Our runway will be equipped with modern technology and our rapid exit taxiways mean WSI’s average taxing time will be around five minutes, significantly shorter compared to other airports around the world, which will get people home and away faster.”
Hickey said the progress shows how far the future hub has come, with millions of work hours logged since it kicked off major works in 2019.
“The site has been transformed to build our 3.7km runway, equipped with approximately 3,000 aeronautical ground lights and 348 high intensity approach lights, which will cater for up to 10 million annual passengers from day one of operations next year,” he added.
“Part of our runway certification also involved a Piper PA-30 Twin Engine Comanche aircraft successfully completing multiple take offs and landings on our runway in October last year to ensure the lighting and technology systems were operating effectively.”
Long term, WSI is built for growth. Sydney’s only 24/7 airport plans to eventually handle more than 80 million passengers each year – similar to the scale of London Heathrow.
Wining & dining
In May, WSI put the call out to restaurants, cafes, bars and other outlets to help create the food and beverage experience at the future gateway.
According to the hub, selected food and drink operators can now tender to be part of Western Sydney Airport’s expanding terminal hospitality precinct.
“We want to create a fantastic experience for our customers so they can relax and enjoy a variety of world-class, all-day dining options that enhance their travels while showcasing the best global and Australian food trends,” Hickey stated.
“WSI will be a wonderful, new airport experience for all of Greater Sydney, but it’s proudly at home in Western Sydney – one of Australia’s most diverse and fastest growing regions, so we’re also keen to hear from businesses who can help highlight our vibrant home city.”
WSI will offer over 20 food and drink sites, covering 2,300 square metres of leasable space inside the terminal.
For more info on Western Sydney Airport, visit wsiairport.com.au.
