Dnata to operate cargo terminal at Western Sydney International Airport

Global air and travel services provider, dnata, is to invest approximately A$32 million on a dedicated cargo terminal operation at Western Sydney International Airport (WSI),

It notes that the investment will reinforce its long-term commitment to the New South Wales market and Australia’s aviation industry.

The complex will include a 5,000sqm warehouse facility within WSI’s 24-hour Cargo Precinct, supported by an additional 4,000sqm of surrounding land.

The airport will deliver the site as a cold shell, with dnata undertaking a full operational fit-out of the terminal, including critical infrastructure and the installation of a semi-motorised materials handling system.

Approximately A$6 million of the investment will be allocated to specialised equipment and technology to ensure scalable, efficient and future-ready cargo operations, including capabilities to support specialised cargo such as pharmaceuticals and other time- and temperature-sensitive shipments.

Freighter operations are scheduled to commence in July 2026, ahead of the airport’s full passenger opening later this year.

The facility will be equipped handle up to 60,000 tonnes of cargo annually at maturity, strengthening capacity in New South Wales, which plays a central role in Australia’s air freight network.

The new operation is projected to create approximately 50 direct roles in its initial phase, with further employment opportunities anticipated as volumes grow and operations expand.

Burt Sigsworth, dnata’s managing director of airport operations in Australia, said: “Our investment in Western Sydney International reflects strong confidence in the region’s long-term economic trajectory and the critical role air freight plays in supporting Australian trade.

“By establishing a purpose-built cargo facility from day one, we are strengthening supply chain resilience, supporting local industry and creating skilled employment opportunities in one of the country’s fastest-growing economic corridors.”

The development of dedicated cargo infrastructure at WSI is expected to enhance efficiency for airlines, freight forwarders and integrators, improving connectivity for time-sensitive and high-value goods moving through New South Wales.

Simon Hickey, CEO of WSI, stated: “Our purpose-built 24-hour Cargo Precinct will increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity and provide dedicated access via the upgraded Northern Road with close proximity to growing freight and logistics centres at Kemps Creek and the Aerotropolis.

“Like everything at WSI, the Cargo Precinct is built for growth, and while we’re excited to open stage one and launch operations by the end of July, it also has capacity to expand significantly over the years ahead, in line with market demands.”