Cargo trial flights have commenced at Western Sydney International (WSI) as the new airport readies to open for commercial operations.
The trial flight saw Qantas operate an Airbus A321 freighter to the airport as it prepares for its formal opening later this month.
WSI chief executive Simon Hickey said: “These trials are an integral part of ensuring that our systems, infrastructure and staff have been put through their paces in a live and controlled operating environment.
“Today’s flight will be followed by further trials over the following fortnight as we make our final preparations for commercial freight services.”
He added: “We’ve utilised the latest technology and innovations to deliver a highly efficient, sustainable, and future-proofed Cargo Precinct. Our trials present an excellent opportunity to test these capabilities.”
Other companies that will operate at the airport’s cargo precinct include Menzies Aviation, dnata and Texel Air.
Qantas Freight executive manager Igor Kwiatkowski said WSI will become one of Australia’s key airfreight hubs.
“In just a few weeks, this new 24-hour facility will provide greater flexibility for our freight network, helping us meet growing demand for e-commerce and next-day deliveries,” he said.
“The airport will increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity, helping us to move time-critical supplies around Australia and overseas in the months ahead.”
The Cargo Precinct will offer a capacity of 220,000 tonnes of freight annually. It offers dedicated access via the recently upgraded Northern Road, and proximity to key freight and logistics hubs in Kemps Creek and industrial sites across the Aerotropolis.
The precinct has capacity to “expand significantly” over the years ahead, in line with the needs of “consumers, businesses and associated market demands”, WSI said in a press release.
