First Aircraft Lands at Western Sydney Airport: A New Era for Sydney Air Travel Begins

History was made in Western Sydney this week as the first Boeing 737 landed at Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), kicking off a large-scale emergency exercise and marking a new chapter in Sydney’s aviation story.

On Tuesday morning, October 28, a NSW Rural Fire Service 737 operated by Coulson Aviation became the first jet ever to touch down at the brand-new WSI runway. The touchdown signalled the start of a dynamic two-day emergency response program, where WSI’s operational staff, 300 volunteers, and representatives from agencies such as NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW, Ambulance, Airservices Australia, Australian Federal Police, and Border Force collaborated in a full-blown simulated aircraft incident. This thorough stress test involved more than 50 emergency vehicles and covered crucial aspects like rapid response, forward command, passenger welfare, and disaster recovery, ensuring WSI is well prepared for real-world scenarios.

Federal Minister Catherine King stressed the importance of these simulations: “It was exciting to watch the first 737 jet land at Western Sydney International as we undertook this important stress test of the new airport’s emergency responses. A huge thank you to the volunteers and emergency services who are bringing us closer to opening the airport for passengers in the second half of 2026.”

WSI CEO Simon Hickey echoed the excitement: “What a terrific sight it was to see WSI welcome its first 737 – the first of many jets that will be coming in for landing at Sydney’s new 24-hour airport when we welcome our first commercial customers in the second half of next year.”

Why Does Western Sydney Airport Matter for Sydney’s Future?

The opening of Western Sydney International Airport represents much more than a new runway—it’s a game changer for the future of aviation in Australia’s biggest city. With air traffic growing rapidly, Sydney has faced increasing strain on its current primary gateway, Kingsford Smith Airport. WSI’s launch will bring tangible benefits:

• Easing Congestion: Kingsford Smith has operated for decades as Sydney’s sole major airport, and demand has far outpaced its capacity. The addition of WSI will give airlines and travellers new options, distributing air traffic more evenly and making travel more efficient.
• Growth Opportunities: Western Sydney is booming. The new airport will unlock direct international and domestic routes, create jobs, and energise tourism and business in the region.
• 24-Hour Operations: Unlike Kingsford Smith, WSI will operate around the clock, allowing for more flexible flight schedules and helping airlines better serve customers and cargo operators globally.
• Modern Facilities: Purpose-built for the future, WSI’s design, technology, and infrastructure will set new standards for accessibility, sustainability, and passenger experience.
• Community Impact: WSI is already working closely with local partners and volunteers, embracing collaboration and local investment to foster a sense of pride and opportunity throughout Western Sydney.

The successful emergency exercise marks just one of many milestones as Western Sydney International Airport charges ahead toward its grand opening in 2026. For Sydney’s travellers, businesses, and communities, the promise is clear: less congestion, more connectivity, and exciting new possibilities on the horizon.