SYDNEY Airport is expecting a significant growth surge in the coming years, forecasting 72 million passengers a year by 2045 – a 75% increase from today – as well as $70 billion in annual economic contribution and more than 105,000 direct jobs.
Laid out in its preliminary draft Master Plan 2045, the hub expects international passenger numbers to rise to 36.4 million annually, with domestic and regional passengers set to increase to 36.2 million.
This means international passengers will make up 50.4% of Sydney Airport’s total passenger volumes, an increase from 40% today.
“We’re pleased to release our preliminary draft Master Plan 2045 and look forward to receiving feedback from our local community, airlines and precinct partners, government at all levels – everyone who has a stake in Sydney Airport’s sustainable growth and development,” said Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton.
“When Sydney Airport grows, so does business, trade, tourism and jobs. This plan is about building the future of Australia’s gateway and ensuring we are ready to play our part in NSW’s ambitious visitor economy strategy.”
The plan, now on public exhibition, also highlights is a proposed expansion linking the T2 and T3 domestic terminals, creating a new precinct where regional, domestic and international services are brought under one roof.
The project will deliver up to 12 new international gates, alongside two additional gates at the T1 International Terminal, providing more capacity, smoother connections for passengers and more efficiency for airlines, while capacity for domestic and regional airlines will also be expanded.
Additionally, the Master Plan includes Sydney Airport’s new five-year Airport Environment Strategy, which commits to taking steps to reduce emissions, build climate resilience and operate more sustainably.
“The proposed major terminal expansion joining the T2 and T3 Terminals will be the most significant development at Sydney Airport since the Olympics, and will unlock greater capacity across all terminals, more efficient use of our runways, and ultimately get passengers from the ground and into the air more quickly,” Charlton added.
“We are conscious that growth also brings responsibility. We’re committed to managing aircraft noise, taking steps to reduce our emissions footprint, and working closely with residents, councils and government to make sure the benefits of growth are shared.”
