It may have been delayed in transit but nothing could stop history from being made at Australia’s new 24-hour gateway yesterday.
A typhoon and technical issues failed to prevent the first cargo aircraft touching down at Western Sydney International Airport (WSI).
The Qantas Airbus A321 became the first freighter aircraft to land at WSI, arriving as part of a readiness flight ahead of regular freight operations commencing in a few weeks.
QF7301 landed at 2pm, helping validate key operational processes at the airport’s new Cargo Precinct, including aircraft handling, ground operations, systems, airside coordination and cargo transfer procedures.
Regular domestic cargo operations will begin on July 27, with the new terminal expected to handle more than 850 tonnes of freight each week.
“Western Sydney International Airport is set to become one of Australia’s key air freight hubs and today’s flight was an important opportunity to test key procedures ahead of starting operations,” said Igor Kwiatkowski, Qantas Freight Executive Manager.
“In just a few weeks, this new 24-hour facility will provide greater flexibility for our freight network, helping us meet growing demand for e-commerce and next-day deliveries.
“The airport will increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity helping us to move time-critical supplies around Australia and overseas in the months ahead.”
Jetstar will operate the first commercial passenger flight from WSI on October 25, the airport’s opening day. Qantas will follow from March 28, 2027, as part of an agreement between the Qantas Group and WSI covering both passenger and freight services.
“These trials are an integral part of ensuring that our systems, infrastructure and staff have been put through their places in a live and controlled operating environment,” said Simon Hickey, WSI CEO.
“Today’s flight will be followed by further trials over the following fortnight as we make our final preparations for commercial freight services.”
Qantas Freight will be joined by other top-tier partners at WSI’s Cargo Precinct including Menzies Aviation, dnata Cargo and Texel Air.
Mr Hickey said WSI and its top-tier cargo hub has the benefit of being Australia’s first greenfield international airport in more than 50 years.
“We’ve utilised the latest technology and innovations to deliver a highly efficient, sustainable and future-proofed Cargo Precinct. Our trials present an excellent opportunity to test these capabilities.”
“The new airport will connect Western Sydney to the world, allowing us to move produce and goods from every corner of the state to new markets across the globe,” commented Kristy McBain, Acting Minister for Transport.
