Sydney’s Western Sydney International Airport Terminal Unveiled Ahead of 2026 Launch

Sydney’s travel landscape is set for a transformation with the completion of major construction works at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI). The brand-new 24-hour airport has officially unveiled its state-of-the-art terminal, marking a major step towards welcoming passengers in late 2026.

Unveiled at a high-profile event attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Infrastructure Minister Catherine King, and top executives from Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Menzies Aviation, and dnata, the new terminal reflects years of planning and collaboration.

"Global architecture leaders Zaha Hadid Architects, based in London, and one of our nation's top firms COX Architecture were selected to develop the initial design concepts of WSI following a competition in 2019 that attracted more than 40 international and domestic proposals," Hickey said. "Fast forward six years and WSI is on the precipice of launching a seamless and stress-free airport experience unlike any other in Australia, giving our global city a 24-hour international gateway that will continue to create significant economic opportunities for all of Greater Sydney."

"People will love spending time in this terminal as they enjoy the iconic vistas of the surrounding Blue Mountains that are reflected in our stunning feature ceiling and take in the thoughtful design and materials like the extensive use of beautiful sandstone that was sourced from a quarry on the Central Coast," he said. "Visitors will be welcomed by the stories of Dharug country that will connect the world with more than 60,000 years of Aboriginal culture while also highlighting the vibrant communities of Western Sydney."

Designed by COX Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects, and constructed by Multiplex and Woods Bagot, the terminal integrates sustainable design with innovative technology. Inspired by the Greater Blue Mountains and local Indigenous culture, the terminal features a climate-responsive façade and over 6,000 rooftop solar panels to reduce energy use. A rainwater recycling system will support irrigation, cooling towers and more, promoting eco-friendly operations.

Passengers will enjoy a seamless travel experience, with domestic and international gates under one roof and next-generation technology ensuring faster check-ins and connections.

CEO Simon Hickey expressed gratitude to the thousands of workers and contractors involved, and highlighted the airport’s $500 million investment in local businesses across Western Sydney. Key infrastructure such as the 3.7km runway and landside works including roads, bridges and car parks are now complete, thanks to contractors like CPB Contractors/ACCIONA JV and AeroWest JV.

With the retail and airline lounge fit-outs underway, WSI remains on track for opening in late 2026, offering domestic, international, and air cargo services. As Australia’s first new international airport in over 50 years, WSI is poised to become a game-changer in Australian aviation.

"WSI has been the catalyst for billions in investment in the region and has helped create thousands of local jobs during construction and will bring even more opportunities across our precinct and the surrounding Bradfield City and Aerotropolis once the airport opens," he said.