Western Sydney Airport opens with first international flight arrival from Auckland

Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport welcomed its first international flight on 26 October, Euronews reported. Air New Zealand flight NZ165 arrived from Auckland, marking the start of international passenger service at the new facility. Euronews and Simple Flying described the project as Australia's first major new international airport in 50 years. [1][5][6]

The arrival follows the official opening of the airport a day earlier, when domestic flights began operating, according to Euronews and ABC News. Simple Flying reported that Jetstar launched the first domestic passenger services from the facility, which cost 14 billion dollars to build. [1][6][7]

The new airport is situated at Badgerys Creek, approximately 60 kilometres west of central Sydney, Euronews reported. Unlike Sydney's existing airport, the new facility operates 24 hours a day. Euronews noted that round-the-clock operations give airlines greater scheduling flexibility. [1]

Western Sydney is a major metropolitan region that encompasses 11 local government areas, including Penrith and Parramatta, stretching west to the Blue Mountains. The launch of international flights establishes the suburban region as a major global transport hub. [1][8]