Qantas Freight Becomes First Operator at Western Sydney’s New 24/7 Cargo Hub
(IN SHORT) Qantas Freight has become the first freight airline to sign on with Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport’s new 24-hour Cargo Precinct. This partnership is expected to increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity by 33% and provide dedicated access to major logistics centres. Qantas’ facility will include 14,000 square metres of warehousing and support its upgraded Airbus A321 and A330 freighter fleet. The new cargo hub, set to begin operations in 2026, will enhance efficiency for overnight deliveries and create over 19,000 jobs. Both Qantas and WSI CEOs highlighted the strategic advantages for exporters and local job creation.
(PRESS RELEASE) Sydney, Australia, 2024-Oct-2 — /Travel PR News/ — The Qantas Group has strengthened its partnership with Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) by announcing Qantas Freight as the first freight carrier to operate in the airport’s new 24-hour Cargo Precinct.
Expected to boost Sydney’s air cargo capacity by 33%, the new precinct will provide key access to major logistics centres at Kemps Creek and the Aerotropolis via upgraded road infrastructure. Qantas Freight’s facility will cover approximately 24,000 square metres, with 14,000 square metres dedicated to warehousing, facilitating seamless handling of both international imports and domestic express goods.
The new site will also support Qantas’ upgraded freighter fleet, which includes modern Airbus A321 and A330 aircraft. The Cargo Precinct, currently under construction, will eventually include up to 75,000 square metres of warehousing and be able to accommodate eight wide-body aircraft simultaneously. Cargo operations are set to begin in late 2026.
Qantas International and Freight CEO, Cam Wallace, highlighted the strategic advantages of the location, particularly for overnight flights, enabling faster delivery across Australia. He also noted the more sustainable and quieter operations of Qantas’ new freighter aircraft.
WSI CEO, Simon Hickey, expressed excitement about Qantas Freight joining the Cargo Precinct, emphasizing the operational efficiencies of the integrated hub. Hickey also pointed out the benefits for exporters, including direct connectivity between freighters and transport terminals, and the significant job opportunities the precinct will create, with 2,000 jobs during construction and over 19,000 direct and indirect positions once operational.
The development signals a key step forward for Sydney’s air freight capabilities, with Qantas Freight positioned as a cornerstone of WSI’s growing cargo infrastructure.
Media Contacts:
Qantas Media: qantasmedia@qantas.com.au
Western Sydney International Airport: media@wsaco.com.au
Source: Qantas
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