Western Sydney International Airport opened for passenger operations on October 25, marking a new stage in a project developed over decades. The Australian government identified Jetstar service JQ362 to the Gold Coast as the inaugural passenger flight, using an Airbus A320.

The opening follows 15 years of planning, seven years of construction and a year of testing, according to the government’s joint statement. The broader airport precinct involved more than 13,000 workers, with over half based in Western Sydney.

Domestic and international passengers use the same terminal building. Its equipment includes more than 40 check-in kiosks and 34 bag-drop kiosks. The government describes additional airline services as part of a continuing ramp-up, with the first international departure for Auckland scheduled for October 26.

The opening creates additional capacity and a new point of access for the region, but it does not mean every announced route or transport connection is already operating. The associated Sydney Metro airport connection and several road improvements are described as future projects.