Air New Zealand has announced its intention to operate flights to Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, making it the first trans-Tasman airline to sign an agreement with the new airport. The airline plans to commence services from mid-2027, with the initial route connecting Auckland and Western Sydney.
Greg Foran, Air New Zealand's Chief Executive Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the development. "Western Sydney International represents an exciting step forward for aviation in Australia, and we're delighted to be the first trans-Tasman carrier to signal our intent to operate there as we continue to grow," he said. He added that this move would enhance their network and serve the expanding Western Sydney region better.
The new route will add options for customers alongside Air New Zealand's existing services into Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. Simon Hickey, CEO of WSI, welcomed the partnership with Air New Zealand and emphasized that WSI is Sydney's only 24-hour airport. "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," Hickey stated.