Air New Zealand the first trans-Tasman carrier to fly to Western Sydney International
Air New Zealand has become the first trans-Tasman airline to sign an agreement with Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), signalling its intent to operate services to the new airport from mid-2027.
The airline’s first route will connect Auckland and Western Sydney, opening a new gateway between Aotearoa, New Zealand and one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran says the airline is pleased to be leading the way in connecting the two countries via the new airport.
“Western Sydney International represents an exciting step forward for aviation in Australia, and we’re delighted to be the first trans-Tasman carrier to commit to operating there as we continue to grow”.
“It’s a great opportunity to grow our network and better serve the rapidly expanding Western Sydney region. This new route reflects our commitment to make travel more convenient for our customers and support stronger connections between New Zealand and Australia.
“We’re looking forward to offering customers our world-class Air New Zealand service to and from a world-class new airport.”
The new route will complement Air New Zealand’s existing services into Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, adding more choice for the airline’s customers.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said Sydney’s new and only 24-hour airport is delighted to partner with Air New Zealand and the NSW Government, giving travellers more choice and flexibility and connecting to connect two much-loved destinations.
“I’d like to extend a warm ‘Kia ora’ to our friends across the Tasman as we welcome Air New Zealand’s world-class services to Sydney’s new international gateway,” he said.
“This new strategic partnership, supported by the Western Sydney International Take-off Fund, will connect one of Australia’s most diverse and fastest growing regions – Western Sydney – with New Zealand's largest city and main holiday gateway.
“WSI’s innovative terminal facilities and use of next-generation technology will offer Air New Zealand passengers a seamless, intuitive and meaningful airport experience, while our 24-hour capacity will give people more choice on when and how they choose to fly. We can’t wait to welcome you.”
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “Western Sydney International Airport is getting ready for take-off. This is the first new route secured through the Minns Labor Government’s Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund, and a route that I am sure will no doubt be very popular.
“Sydney is the top overseas city of choice for Kiwis, and this new direct connection to Western Sydney will unlock incredible opportunities for local tourism, business and jobs. The economics are very simple, if we want to grow our visitor economy, we need more visitors.
“The Minns Labor Government is proud to have worked with Western Sydney International Airport and Air New Zealand to secure this new route that will boost the Western Sydney economy. I look forward to working with WSI to secure further new routes.”
The planned start of services in mid-2027 is subject to aircraft availability* with more details be confirmed closer to the launch.
This announcement follows the recent launch of our Christchurch–Adelaide route and marks another step in our trans-Tasman growth strategy, with more capacity increases planned as we continue to strengthen our network and better connect New Zealand with Australia.