Jetstar will become the first airline to operate a commercial passenger flight from the newly built Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) when the terminal opens later this year. The inaugural service, flight JQ362, is scheduled to depart at 11:00 AM on Sunday, October 25, heading to the Gold Coast.
Flight Schedule and Operations
Jetstar plans to run up to 14 flights per week between WSI and Melbourne, along with four weekly services to the Gold Coast and three weekly flights to Brisbane. All flights will be operated by Airbus A320 aircraft.
Qantas operations are set to commence on March 28, 2027, with four flights per week to both Melbourne and Brisbane using QantasLink Embraer E190 jets.
Freighter and International Services
The first freighter service from WSI’s 24-hour Cargo Precinct will take off on July 27. Air New Zealand will begin flights to Auckland on October 26, and Singapore Airlines will start daily services to Changi on November 23, 2026.
Industry and Government Reactions
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson described the new flights as a "major milestone for Australian aviation." She stated, "We’re incredibly proud that Jetstar will be the first Australian airline to begin operations at Western Sydney International Airport and Qantas will follow early next year." Hudson highlighted the potential of WSI to boost local tourism and improve aviation accessibility for millions in Western Sydney who currently travel to Kingsford Smith Airport.
Western Sydney Airport CEO Simon Hickey noted that the region’s business and leisure travelers will benefit from increased choice and flexibility. Despite ongoing global challenges, the domestic ticket launch signals confidence in WSI and the opportunities for air travel growth in Greater Sydney. He also welcomed Qantas Freight to the 24-hour Cargo Precinct from July 27, which will enhance cargo capacity and support business expansion.
The WSI project has generated over 12,800 jobs, with approximately half going to local workers, according to the federal government.
