Sydney's new 24-hour international airport is one step closer to completion with the final crane now removed as work on the towering terminal roof wrapped up this week.
This major milestone for Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) represents an important step-change for the ongoing terminal fit-out as it weatherproofs the building to help accelerate internal works like the feature ceiling, departure areas, lounges and retail and hospitality spaces.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey was joined by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King to tour the terminal and inspect the latest progress today, as the countdown to opening continues.
"We're pleased to unveil the latest progress of Western Sydney International Airport to the world and give passengers, airlines and businesses a sneak peek of what to expect when we open in just two and a half years' time," Mr Hickey said.
"With less than 20 per cent of the airport build remaining, we're really getting to the pointy end of construction and getting a strong sense of the terrific experience our customers will enjoy when they catch their first flight in 2026."
More than 100 workers, many of whom are Western Sydney locals, have helped build the terminal roof over the last 18 months, while about 3,500 people across the broader workforce are bringing WSI to life each day.
The roof's construction was supported by four tower cranes that performed thousands of lifts before being gradually decommissioned as roof works were completed.
The more than 44,000m2 terminal roof structure - that includes fixed link bridges, piers and the terminal main building - is supported by over 40km of Australian made steel purlins and more than 3,500 tonnes of steelwork, primarily fabricated between Adelaide, Whyalla, Tamworth and Orange.
In addition, more than 6,000 solar panels will be affixed to the terminal roof to help power terminal operations and the broader airport.
Mr Hickey said WSI is fast approaching opening day, at which point the airport will be able to cater for 10 million passengers each year.
"We have a clear roadmap to become Sydney's largest airport and primary international gateway. By 2063, WSI will be handling about 80 million annual passengers - that's akin to the size of Hong Kong and London's Heathrow airports today," Mr Hickey said.
"This airport is an economic powerhouse that will bring unprecedented global connectivity and prosperity for Western Sydney, as it continues to attract billions of dollars in investment while generating thousands of training and job opportunities."
WSI is on track to open to international, domestic and air cargo services in late 2026.
