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Run the runway: Western Sydney International opens tarmac to public for one day only

Join runners and walkers in a one-off opportunity to access the tarmac at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport for a good cause on 26 April 2026.

Join runners and walkers in a one-off opportunity to access the tarmac at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport for a good cause on 26 April 2026.

The 2026 Runway Run/Walk event at WSI will attract runners and walkers nationwide to Australia’s newest airport to support Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) and have a go at one of the flattest, widest and fastest courses.

Participants can choose a 4km sprint down the runway loop, a full lap (7km), two laps (14km), a 21km half-marathon (three laps) or the Community Runway Walk.

Aerial view of WSI tarmac.
Runners and walkers can check out the fully flat course for one of Australia’s fastest loops.

Once 24/7 international aviation operations commence at WSI, public access to the runway will be restricted, making the event a historic chance to hit the tarmac.

Elite Energy Events CEO Mark Emerton said the Runway Run/Walk’s location on the brand-new WSI tarmac ensures it will be a unique community and sporting event.

Exterior of Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) building.
Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport will open later this year.

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the Runway Run/Walk provides special behind-the-scenes access to the airport’s brand new 3.7km runway before it welcomes its first passengers and planes in late 2026.

“The countdown is well and truly on for WSI’s opening, but before that day comes, we’re excited to welcome community members for this special sneak peek at their new airport, where they’ll have the opportunity to run and walk on an international airport runway before the rubber really hits the road,” he said. 

Render of WSI Airport and tarmac.
WSI is Australia’s newest 24/7 international airport.

SCHF CEO Kristina Keneally said Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation is proud to be the official charity partner for this event. 

“Every participant will help support sick kids and their families across NSW, because a portion of every registration goes directly to supporting the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, including our two children’s hospitals at Westmead and Randwick,” she said.

For more info and to register, head to runwayrun.com.au