Inaugural flight from Western Sydney International marks historic day for aviation and attracts global attention as first new airport in decades
Hundreds attended the inaugural passenger flight from Western Sydney International, marking a historic moment for Australia.Excited spectators gathered early on Sunday to celebrate the opening of the country’s first major airport in 50 years.
Jetstar flight JQ362 to the Gold Coast became the first commercial flight, departing slightly late at 11.20am, garnering global attention.
The flight was tracked as the most followed flight worldwide via Flight Radar 24.
Jetstar plans to operate up to 24 return services per week from Western Sydney, including routes to Melbourne, Brisbane, and Bali.
Air New Zealand will initiate the first international service to Auckland on Monday.
We’ve got our first WSI delay https://t.co/W3P8atMe20
— Simon Dean (@simondeanxyz) October 25, 2026
Airport opens
Many passengers celebrated the occasion and shared their excitement.
Local resident Chris Grant expressed pride in being part of history, stating his boarding pass held significant value.
He quickly secured tickets for the inaugural flights, eager to be among the first to take off.
The new Western Sydney Airport is named after aviation pioneer Nancy-Bird Walton.
The airport’s opening concludes decades of discussions on the need for additional airport facilities in Sydney.
過去一ダサい初便グッズ貰った🤣🤣🧢笑笑
田舎のおじいちゃんが被ってるJA帽子感！ウェスタンシドニー→メルボルンJQ375
(WSI)→(MEL)ウェスタンシドニー空港の2便目の出発〜‼️
行ってきます👋🇦🇺 https://t.co/WuyEH4hSBQ— ギャルトラベラーゆな💜@youtube♡tiktok (@galtraveler_yu) October 25, 2026
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the importance of the airport to local communities and the economic impact it will have.
Officials at the opening included Transport Minister Catherine King and NSW Premier Chris Minns.
The airport is strategically located 44km from Sydney’s CBD, aiming to cater to those living in the fast-growing western suburbs.
Albanese underscored the airport’s role in job creation and improving travel access for future generations.
Front row for the inaugural commercial flight from WSI – Western Sydney Airport. JQ362 bound for the Gold Coast!
@JetstarAirways @WSIAirport_ https://t.co/9PSkrDonl3
— Andrew Hawkins (@AndrewNJHawkins) October 25, 2026
Western Sydney International will operate 24/7, unlike Kingsford Smith which has flight restrictions during night hours.
The terminal comprises over 40 check-in and 34 baggage drop kiosks, integrating international and domestic travel services.
The facility is prepared to accommodate modern ultra-long-haul aircraft, addressing future demand.
Experts acknowledge the significance of this launch but caution about potential challenges ahead for the new airport.
