Australia has approved Sydney Airport’s Master Plan 2045, clearing the way for a long-term redevelopment of Kingsford Smith Airport that includes expansion of the international T1 terminal and a more integrated domestic precinct linking T2 and T3 with regional and international services. The 20-year plan points to annual passenger growth to 72.6 million by 2045, as Sydney Airport prepares for larger domestic, international and freight demand at the country’s busiest gateway.
The approved framework covers development through 2045 and sets out an initial five-year programme for the airport’s next phase of planning. Sydney Airport expects international passenger movements to rise 123% from 2024 levels, while domestic and regional traffic is forecast to increase 44% over the same period. Freight volumes are projected to climb from about 600,000 tonnes to 1.4 million tonnes by 2045.
The government’s decision formalises a plan that had previously been out for consultation and gives Sydney Airport a strategic basis for its long-range capacity and connectivity work. The redevelopment is also tied to wider economic planning, with the airport anticipating stronger employment and business activity as passenger and cargo volumes grow.