Green light for Sydney Airport’s Master Plan 2045

Sydney Airport’s Master Plan 2045 has been approved by the Australian Government, setting the long-term vision for how Australia’s busiest airport will grow over the next two decades.

The approval by Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King supports Sydney Airport’s plans to meet future demand, strengthen Australia’s global connectivity and drive economic growth across New South Wales.

EEP MDP Image Masterplan.

Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton, enthused: “As Sydney grows, Sydney Airport must grow with it.

“Approval of Sydney Airport Master Plan 2045 provides a clear pathway to plan for future demand and invest in the infrastructure Sydney will need over the next two decades.

“As Australia’s international gateway, this plan ensures we can continue supporting tourism, trade, investment and jobs while delivering the capacity needed for future generations.

“Importantly, it provides a framework for growing sustainably and responsibly, minimising environmental impacts and working closely with the communities surrounding the airport.

“I’d like to thank the Australian Government and Minister King for their support and endorsement of the Master Plan.

“I also want to acknowledge the valuable contributions of our partners, government agencies, and the community throughout the planning process, and we look forward to continuing to work together to deliver this vision for Sydney Airport’s future.”

The Master Plan forecasts Sydney Airport will welcome more than 72 million passengers annually by 2045, including 36.4 million international passengers and 36.2 million domestic and regional passengers.

The airport’s annual economic contribution is expected to grow to around A$70 billion, while direct employment at Sydney Airport is forecast to increase to more than 105,000 jobs.

The Master Plan provides the framework for future investment in terminal capacity, transport connections and passenger facilities needed to support forecast growth.

Central to the plan is the proposed redevelopment of Sydney Airport’s domestic precinct, including plans to bring together domestic, regional, and international services through a new integrated terminal experience.

The Master Plan also incorporates Sydney Airport’s five-year Airport Environment Strategy, which outlines actions to reduce emissions, build climate resilience and support more sustainable airport operations.

These are exciting times for Sydney, with new greenfield gateway Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) set to begin handling passenger flights from October 25.