The next piece of the Western Sydney Airport (WSI) puzzle has been filled, with Singapore Airlines revealed as the first international airline to operate at the new facility when it opens in late 2026. The securement of a major carrier like SQ as its first overseas airline partner is a coup for WSI, and the partnership will allow both the airline and travellers to take advantage of the facility’s unique scheduling opportunities.

The airport, officially known as Nancy-Bird Walton Airport, is being built at Badgerys Creek, about 44km west of Sydney’s central business district. It will become the second major airport in Sydney, and is intended to operate around-the-clock with no curfew, using a 3.7-kilometer runway that can take aircraft as big as the Airbus A380. 

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the partnership with Singapore Airlines is a “fantastic milestone” for the airport, and reflects the positive response it has received from airlines. “This inaugural international airline arrangement… reflects the positive response we’ve had from airlines, especially in regard to the unprecedented opportunities our 24-hour capability unlocks,” he said.

The airport's 24-hour operation is a major advantage for airlines, as it allows them to offer more flexible flight schedules and tap into new markets. For example, Singapore Airlines business travellers can finish a full day’s work in Sydney, take an overnight flight and arrive in Singapore before their first morning meeting the very next day. 

Singapore Airlines Regional Vice President South West Pacific, Louis Arul, said the partnership is “a unique opportunity to work with a greenfield airport to set a new baseline for customer experience throughout an airport ecosystem”. “This agreement reflects our commitment to enhancing network connectivity for travellers to and from Sydney, and providing additional services for Australia, which is a major market for the Singapore Airlines Group,” he noted. 

The agreement with Singapore Airlines is a major boost for the Western Sydney Airport project, which is currently more than 80 per cent complete. The airport is expected to handle 10 million passengers per year when it opens, with the capacity to grow to 82 million passengers annually over the decades ahead.

International Connections and Economic Growth

The arrival of Singapore Airlines at WSI is a major milestone for the airport and the region. It will provide a much-needed boost to the Western Sydney economy, creating jobs and attracting investment. 

The new airport is expected to create up to 20,000 jobs during its construction phase and a further 28,000 jobs once it is operational. It will also attract new businesses and industries to the region, leading to further economic growth. 

The airport is expected to attract many international airlines, particularly those that operate long-haul routes. This will provide Western Sydney residents with direct access to a wider range of destinations, making it easier to travel for business and leisure. 

The Future of Western Sydney Airport

The Western Sydney Airport is a major infrastructure project that is set to transform the region. It is expected to become a major economic driver, creating jobs, attracting investment, and boosting tourism. 

The airport is also expected to play a key role in connecting Western Sydney to the rest of Australia and the world. This will make it easier for residents of the region to travel, do business, and connect with other cultures. 

The arrival of Singapore Airlines is a major step forward for the Western Sydney Airport project. It is a clear sign that the airport is on track to become a major international hub. The airport is expected to be a game-changer for Western Sydney, bringing with it a wealth of opportunities for the region. 

A New Era for Western Sydney

The Western Sydney Airport is a symbol of the region’s growth and ambition. It is a testament to the commitment of the Australian government to invest in infrastructure and create opportunities for all Australians. 

The airport is expected to become a major economic and social hub for Western Sydney. It will connect the region to the world, creating new opportunities for business, tourism, and travel. The airport is set to be a major catalyst for growth and development in Western Sydney.