Western Sydney International Airport opened to passengers on Sunday, 25 October, with its first commercial flight departing for the Gold Coast.
Jetstar service JQ362 took off shortly before 11:30am, ABC News reported. Passenger check-in had opened at 8am for the sold-out flight.
The airport is at Badgerys Creek, about 45 kilometres from Sydney’s central business district. It operates around the clock, offering another gateway for travellers using Australia’s largest city.
Passenger services follow the start of cargo operations in July.
Reuters reported that the new airport cost A$5.6 billion. Its opening follows years of planning and construction.
Sunday’s first departure marks the start of passenger operations. Future airline routes, traffic growth and terminal expansion will determine how quickly the airport develops its role alongside Sydney’s existing airport.
