Western Sydney International Airport is officially open for business, with its inaugural commercial freight flights set to take off today from its state-of-the-art, 24-hour Cargo Precinct.

This marks a major milestone for Australia’s critical supply chains, domestic producers and manufacturers, Western Sydney’s rapidly growing economy, and the state’s air cargo capacity.

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said WSI’s state-of-the-art cargo hub will create opportunities for Greater Sydney’s businesses, workers and broader supply chains as it connects Western Sydney to the world.

“Air freight underpins many of NSW’s highest-value industries including fresh meat and seafood products, pharmaceuticals, agricultural exports, electronics, advanced manufacturing and more,” he said. 

“These industries rely on rapid international connections that can only be serviced by air freight, with our 24-hour Cargo Precinct initially capable of moving about a quarter of a million tonnes of freight per year, which is a massive boost to Sydney’s overall air cargo capacity. 

“This means that a fish caught in Forster can be served fresh at a restaurant in Singapore the next day, or that patients in the Pacific will benefit from access to critical but perishable medicines, while consumers across Sydney will also receive their coveted e-commerce packages more swiftly. 

“At the same time, our Cargo Precinct and the broader logistics and supply chain industries will create thousands of great new job opportunities for Western Sydney workers, closer to their homes and families.”

WSI’s Cargo Precinct offers dedicated access via the recently upgraded Northern Road, and proximity to key freight and logistics hubs in Kemps Creek and Wetherill Park and industrial sites across the Aerotropolis. This connectivity is also bolstered by the recently opened M12 and M7 integration, providing seamless access to Sydney’s broader motorway network. 

Stage one of the Precinct is approximately 733,000 square metres and will be able to cater for eight 747/777 freighters or 16 737/A320 domestic freighters, simultaneously. 

Top-tier partners Qantas Freight, Menzies Aviation, dnata Cargo, dnata Catering & Retail, and Texel Air have signed on to WSI's Cargo Precinct, which will eventually grow to become the major centre of air freight for the region – with capacity to service up to 1.8 million tonnes of air cargo annually. 

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the opportunities presented by WSI’s 24-hour Cargo Precinct would generate billions of dollars in new export revenue, enhancing Australia’s standing on the global stage.

"The trials at the freight precinct are now complete, with Western Sydney International Airport commencing operations today and welcoming its first freight flights," Minister King said. 

“Our first freight flights will soon be packed with cargo, set for departure later today. It’s exciting progress as we gear up to seeing Western Sydney International's first passenger flights commence on October 25.” 

WSI is Australia’s first major international greenfield airport in more than 50 years. It has been the catalyst for billions of dollars in broader infrastructure investment, including in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis. 

The Aerotropolis is fast becoming a leading destination for advanced manufacturing, logistics, technology and industrial investment – supported by the global connectivity of WSI and speed-to-market offered by its 24-hour operations. It will support 200,000 new jobs in the broader region, with a $31 billion investment pipeline.

CARGO PRECINCT PARTNER QUOTES

Qantas CEO of International and Freight Cam Wallace said: 

“It’s a historic day for aviation in Australia as our first freight services take off from Western Sydney International Airport. This new terminal will help us meet growing demand for next-day deliveries and move express cargo across Australia and the world.

"Western Sydney International is a major piece of infrastructure for this country and we're proud to be opening our new freight terminal, which comes ahead of Jetstar's first passenger services in October and Qantas to follow early next year."

Texel Air, Founder and Chairman John Chisolm said: 

"For Texel Air, one of the most exciting aspects of Western Sydney International is the freedom that comes with genuine 24-hour operations. The ability to operate without curfew restrictions creates opportunities that simply do not exist elsewhere in the Sydney market.

"In our business, time is often the most valuable commodity. Whether it's express freight, perishable products, live cargo or time-critical charter operations, customers need flexibility and certainty. A 24-hour cargo airport allows freight to move when it is ready, not when an airport's operating window permits. That means more efficient supply chains, greater reliability and ultimately a better outcome for Australian businesses and consumers."

Menzies Aviation, EVP Cargo Beau Paine said:

“Menzies Aviation provides air cargo and ground services at 15 airports across Australia, and we are proud to be partnering with WSI to help establish the airport as a major gateway. Our new cargo facility has direct airside access, multiple freighter bays and the capability to handle pharmaceuticals, perishables, e-commerce shipments and heavy freight. 

"Our aim is to strengthen the supply chain and accelerate the movement of goods through MACH, our next-generation cargo management platform, MILE, our e-commerce solution, and a new trucking network connecting our Sydney cargo facilities."

dnata Airport Operations Australia, Managing Director Burt Sigsworth said: 

“Strong air cargo infrastructure is critical to connecting Australian businesses with global markets, and Western Sydney International Airport is set to play an important role in shaping that future. Our new cargo facility has been designed to provide the capacity, flexibility and operational expertise needed to meet the evolving needs of customers and supply chains. 

"We are excited to contribute to the development of a world-class cargo hub that will strengthen connectivity, facilitate trade and create new opportunities for businesses across the region and beyond.”

dnata Catering & Retail Australia & Southeast Asia, Regional CEO Gareth Rees said: 

“The opening of Western Sydney International Airport’s Cargo Precinct marks a significant milestone for Australia’s aviation industry and creates exciting opportunities for growth across the broader airport ecosystem. Our investment in a new catering facility demonstrates our confidence in the airport's long-term success and our commitment to supporting airline customers with high-quality culinary and onboard retail solutions. 

"We look forward to working collaboratively with the airport and industry partners as Western Sydney International establishes itself as an important gateway for Australia.”