Western Sydney International Airport ends year on a high

Penrith’s future as an airport city is edging closer, with construction at the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport entering a new phase of works.

Construction on the airport’s passenger terminal officially commenced last month. Once open, the airport on Penrith’s doorstep will have the capacity to handle up to 10 million passengers a year.

This presents a huge opportunity for Penrith as the closest city centre to the new airport and the only city connected by rail from day one of operations. The Sydney Metro Western Sydney Airport line will connect St Marys to the new airport from 2026. This will mean Penrith’s visitor economy will start to receive an influx of travellers from across the globe.

The airport will provide a superior passenger experience that aims to get people through the terminal quicker. This will be achieved with new technology such as a baggage handling system that allows passengers to track their luggage.

Western Sydney Airport Chief Executive Officer Simon Hickey describes the airport as a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

“This will be Australia’s best airport terminal, with world-leading technology, innovative design and excellent customer service coming together to set a new benchmark for what Australians will expect when they fly.”

Celebrating the commencement of the new construction phase, Prime Minister Scott Morrison noted the airport will attract investment to the region.

“The airport will also play a crucial role in the nation’s aviation future, delivering dynamic global connections for the region and opening up even further possibilities for new routes and services,” said Mr Morrison.

With large parcels of greenfield land in the aerotropolis to the airport’s north, Penrith can provide a range of businesses with the space and connectivity to take advantage of these possibilities.

The 850ha Mamre Precinct is already proving attractive to investors, with demand for industrial land high and supply low. Numerous projects are underway, including The Yards from Frasers Property Industrial and Altis Property Partners, and Aspect Industrial Estate by Mirvac.

Penrith’s Northern Gateway Precinct will feature a station along the airport metro line, providing scope for a range of employment uses. Celestino’s Sydney Science Park development will be in the precinct, which is intended to deliver a smart city with a focus on science, education, and innovation.

Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is on track to open in late 2026.