Flight paths

The process for developing the flight paths for Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) is well underway and on track for the airport’s scheduled opening in 2026.

We are currently in the preliminary design and environmental assessment phase for single runway operations, and the next step is for the flight paths to be publicly exhibited for community feedback in mid-2023 as part of a draft Environment Impact Statement (EIS). We will be seeking feedback from the community during this public exhibition period to guide the final flight path design. 

WSI flight paths are being designed by a team of experts, guided by the 12 Airspace Design Principles from the Western Sydney Airport Plan (Airport Plan). The principles were informed by and reflect community and industry feedback on the WSI Stage 1 Development EIS from 2015-16. The principles seek to maximise safety, efficiency and capacity, while minimising impacts on the community and the environment. 

The flight paths are overseen by an aviation Expert Steering Group. This team is led by the Department and includes Airservices Australia, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, and WSA Co, the airport operator. Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport is included as an ex-officio observer. 

For more information about the role, structure and governance of the Expert Steering Group, read the Terms of Reference PDF: 386 KB.

The Forum On Western Sydney Airport (FOWSA) links the community and stakeholders with the Australian Government and the Western Sydney Airport Co Limited (WSA Co). The expert team developing the flight paths will regularly brief FOWSA about the project. FOWSA will ensure community and stakeholder views are heard in the development of flight paths. The Chair of FOWSA also attends Expert Steering Group meetings as an ex-officio member.

For more information on the indicative flight paths and the design process, read the flight path design for single runway operations factsheet PDF: 5.4 MB.