Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport has unveiled the final design of its passenger terminal, drawing on Australia’s natural beauty, rich Aboriginal heritage and strong sustainability principles.
Western Sydney Airport CEO Simon Hickey said every aspect of the design brings together world’s best practice to create a terminal that will offer passengers and airlines an experience unrivalled among Australian airports.
“This will be Australia’s best airport terminal, unlike anything seen before in this country,” he said. “It sets a new benchmark for what Australians will expect when they fly.”
Simple and intuitive wayfinding around a terminal that will be easy to navigate, will come together with great customer service to ensure passengers have a stress-free airport experience.
We’re building Sydney’s new airport, with what will be Australia’s best airport terminal.
Sit back, relax and enjoy this first look at the amazing experience you can expect when you fly with us from late 2026. #westernsydney #airport pic.twitter.com/fKgXL5Mrth
— Western Sydney International Airport (@flyWSA) June 4, 2021
“Flying from Western Sydney International will be fast, easy and seamless,” Hickey added. “For airlines, our terminal will be all about operational efficiency and reliability, providing an environment where passengers arrive at the aircraft feeling relaxed and ready to fly.” He also highlighted the importance of the consultation with Aboriginal communities throughout the design process. “A connection to country will be reflected across both the departures and arrivals, ensuring the terminal has an authentic sense of place in Dharug country.”
Moreover, sustainability considerations are front and centre, with passive design principles drawing on natural light and airflows to provide superior energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
“A climate responsive façade with ample shading and high-performance glass will ensure less energy is needed to keep the terminal at a comfortable temperature all year round,” Hickey explained.
The terminal precinct’s forecourt aims to become a destination in itself, with gardens featuring local native plants and areas that could be used for local produce markets, festivals and community events.
The design is an evolution of the initial concepts released two years ago. While key design principles have been retained, the final design aims to deliver the best customer outcomes in the context of a strong regional identity of Western Sydney.
Following a competitive procurement process, the contract to take the initial concepts through to a final design and to construct the terminal, has been awarded to Australian-founded company Multiplex.
Terminal construction is due to begin at the end of the year. Western Sydney International is on track to begin international and domestic passenger services and air cargo operations in late 2026, with the aim to serve 10 million passengers per year.
