Singapore Airlines First International Carrier to Operate Flights from New Western Sydney Airport

SYDNEY- Singapore Airlines (SQ) has become the first international carrier to commit to operations at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), Australia.

This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for Australia’s newest 24-hour airport, set to open in late 2026.

Photo: Western Sydney International Airport

Singapore Airlines Sydney Airport

Singapore Airlines or SIA’s decision strengthens its position in the Australian market, where it currently ranks as the largest foreign carrier. Cirium data shows that in September 2024, SIA will be the third-largest international airline in Australia by seat capacity, behind only Qantas (QF) and Jetstar (JQ).

Australia represents SIA’s largest country market, with over 348,000 seats scheduled for September 2024, a 4.1% increase from September 2019. Including its low-cost subsidiary Scoot (TR), the SIA Group’s total capacity in Australia has risen to over 444,000 seats.

Sydney remains SIA’s primary Australian destination, with more than 82,000 seats planned for September 2024. The addition of WSI to SIA’s network will further enhance its Sydney operations.

WSI’s 24-hour operational status provides SIA with a strategic advantage over Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD), which enforces a curfew from 11 pm to 6 am. This unrestricted schedule allows SIA to develop new transfer options for Sydney passengers, potentially including late-night departures from WSI.

These late departures could align with SIA’s first-morning wave of flights from Singapore to Southeast Asia, and North Asia, and select Indian destinations, optimizing connectivity and expanding travel options for passengers.

Photo: Western Sydney International Airport

CEO Remarks

WSI CEO Simon Hickey announced the strategic agreement, highlighting the airport’s unique 24-hour operational capability as a key factor in attracting SIA.

The partnership will enable SIA to offer late-night departures from WSI, allowing business travelers to complete a full workday in Sydney before flying overnight to Singapore for early morning meetings. This scheduling flexibility is unavailable at Sydney’s existing airport due to curfew restrictions.

WSI’s 24-hour operations will also facilitate faster connections through SIA’s hub at Changi Airport, enhancing access to the airline’s network of 125 destinations. Hickey emphasized that WSI’s focus on delivering a smooth, technology-driven customer experience was another major draw for SIA.

The airport’s combined international and domestic terminals will provide seamless transfers for SIA passengers. Advanced baggage systems and efficient design, including five-minute taxi times, aim to expedite boarding processes and improve the overall passenger experience.

WSI’s location in Western Sydney, home to over 150 different ancestries, is expected to unlock new opportunities for residents with international connections. With construction more than 80% complete, including the recent terminal roof installation, the airport is on track to open in late 2026.

Photo: By Simon_sees from Australia – Sydney Airport, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=72845384

VP Insights

Louis Arul, SIA’s Regional Vice President for South West Pacific, stated that the agreement reflects the airline’s commitment to enhancing network connectivity for Sydney travelers and expanding services in the Australian market.

Arul emphasized the unique opportunity to collaborate with a greenfield airport in setting new standards for customer experience.

The partnership builds on a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2023, which outlined plans to explore the airport’s functionality, customer experience, sustainability, operational efficiency, and mutual commercial opportunities.

What are your thoughts on Australia’s new 24-hour open Western Sydney Airport? Which will be the second International carrier to fly from WSI? Let us know in the comments.

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