Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) would like to inform members of a significant development in the aviation sector that could have a profound impact on our cargo operations.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has officially announced its plan to be the first international carrier to commence services at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) when it opens in late 2026. This milestone marks the beginning of what promises to be a transformative era for both passenger and cargo operations in Western Sydney.

KEY DETAILS

Current Operations & Curfew Benefits:
Singapore Airlines already operates five daily flights between Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport and Singapore. However, the 11pm to 6am curfew at Kingsford Smith limits flexibility. WSI's 24-hour operational capability provides a unique advantage, allowing SIA to schedule late-night departures that can maximise efficiency and better serve business travellers and cargo operations.

Cargo Capacity:
SIA is expected to utilise the Airbus A350-900 aircraft for this route, which boasts a cargo capacity of approximately 22,000 kg per flight. This will open new opportunities for managing time-sensitive shipments and enhance the overall capacity for freight moving between Sydney and Singapore.

Quotes from Key Representatives:

• WSI CEO Simon Hickey emphasized the strategic significance of this partnership: "This inaugural international airline arrangement is a fantastic milestone for Western Sydney International Airport and reflects the positive response we've had from airlines, especially in regard to the unprecedented opportunities our 24-hour capability unlocks." He further highlighted how the 24-hour operations will benefit business travellers: "Western Sydney International Airport's late-night departure capacity, for instance, could allow Singapore Airlines' business travellers to finish a full day's work in Sydney, take an overnight flight and arrive in Singapore before their first morning meeting  the very next day."

• Singapore Airlines Regional Vice President South West Pacific, Louis Arul, shared the airline's commitment to enhancing network connectivity: "This agreement reflects our commitment to enhancing network connectivity for travellers to and from Sydney, and providing additional services for Australia, which is a major market for the Singapore Airlines Group." He also noted the unique opportunity WSI presents: "We are working closely with WSI to ensure that our customers will continue to enjoy the comprehensive, end-to-end, world-class experience that is synonymous with Singapore Airlines."

Government Support:

• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese endorsed the partnership, stating, "From Singapore's Marina Bay to Sydney's Badgerys Creek, this shows the bright future ahead for Western Sydney International. Connecting Western Sydney with the world, while boosting jobs, skills and opportunities right across this region." Similarly, Infrastructure Minister Catherine King praised WSI as a "world-class international airport" and a new gateway to Asia.