en.Wedoany.com Reported - Sydney Airport's 20-year master plan has been approved, with the expansion and upgrade-focused proposal paving the way for major terminal buildings, cargo facilities, and infrastructure improvements to meet growing passenger and freight demand.
The plan outlines key projects to be delivered within the initial five-year period, including the expansion of the International Terminal T1 and the redevelopment of domestic Terminals T2 and T3, enabling Australia's busiest airport to match future demand growth.
Sydney Airport Corporation Limited (SACL) forecasts significant operational expansion by 2045, with total passenger throughput expected to reach 72.6 million per year, including a 123% increase in international passenger throughput compared to 2024 and a 44% increase in domestic and regional passenger throughput.
On the cargo front, the plan proposes expanding cargo handling facilities to accommodate the continued rise in air freight volumes. SACL estimates that air freight volumes will increase from 600,000 tonnes in 2024 to 1.4 million tonnes by 2045, with 80% of freight expected to be carried in passenger aircraft belly holds, making timely cargo retrieval from passenger aircraft a key operational focus.
These upgrades are expected to strengthen connectivity between Sydney and airports across Australia, while supporting tourism and economic activity in New South Wales (NSW) and nationwide. Even though the projected noise footprint for 2045 is lower than current levels, SACL is required to adjust existing noise mitigation procedures to minimize additional impacts on local communities amid increased activity. SACL will continue to work with the Sydney Airport Community Forum and report findings directly to the federal government on a regular basis.
Under the plan, SACL is required to work closely with Transport for NSW and neighboring councils to address the potential impacts of airport growth on the local road network, ensuring surrounding infrastructure keeps pace. Future construction works within the airport must also minimize disruption to existing roads, rail, and airport operations.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King stated that Kingsford Smith Airport, as Australia's busiest airport, must remain fit for the future. She said: "Airports are not works of art; they continuously evolve to improve efficiency and enhance the passenger experience, and this new master plan outlines how the airport will achieve that. As demand grows, a modernized Kingsford Smith Airport will continue to be vital to transport, tourism, and industry in New South Wales and across the nation."
