Carriers commit to WSA

THE Federal Government has welcomed news that Qantas and Jetstar will both operate from the planned Western Sydney Airport (WSA) when it opens in 2026, giving the new gateway a full contingent of domestic carriers.

Qantas ceo Alan Joyce last week confirmed both the parent carrier and its low-cost offshoot would operate from the Badgerys Creek facility, though the new airport was likely to be dominated by Jetstar operations.

“What we have said is that we probably think Kingsford Smith will be predominantly Qantas, which it is today,” Joyce said.

“Then over time we continue to grow Qantas’ presence there.

“Then Western Sydney could be predominantly Jetstar and not exclusively in each case,” he said.

Virgin Australia and its low-cost subsidiary Tigerair Australia have also indicated they will operate from the new airport.

Federal Infrastructure Minister Paul Fletcher said having both major full-service carriers at WSA was great news.

“WSA will be a world-class facility - and the intention of both major domestic airlines to operate there is a clear indication of the importance they see WSA having in Australian domestic aviation,” he said.

“Preparatory activities are well underway, and early earthworks will start in the coming months.

“Western Sydney Airport is happening, and it’s great news for Western Sydney,” he said.

The Minister was speaking prior to his appointment yesterday to his new role as Minister for Families & Social Services.

Alan Tudge has taken over the infrastructure portfolio and responsibility for WSA.