New Western Sydney International Airport opens after 80 years of debate and protests
The Western Sydney International Airport has officially opened, marking the end of an 80-year planning and debate process. The project aims to serve as a second major aviation hub for Sydney, with local residents celebrating the milestone.
Why it matters
The opening represents a significant infrastructure achievement that addresses long-term aviation capacity needs for Australia's largest city.
After decades of proposals and planning, a second airport for Sydney accepts passengers from Sunday. ( Supplied: WSI )
Link copied Share Share article For Matthew Hayes, the first passenger flight taking off on Sunday from the newly built Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) is a dream come true.
The 20-year-old transport enthusiast has been looking forward to a second major airport in Sydney since he was a child.
Matthew Hayes is excited for WSI's opening. ( Supplied )
"I used to go with my mother down to the site of the [Badgerys Creek] airport. Back then it was just paddocks and hills, and livestock grazing along the way," he said.
"My mum would tell me, 'One day, when you're older, this is going to be a whole airport.'"
Mr Hayes was one of the trial passengers who tested the airport's new systems two months ago, alongside 80-year-old Kevin Appleby.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in