dnata Allocates A$32 Million for New Cargo Terminal at Western Sydney Airport

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

dnata, a prominent player in global air and travel services, has revealed plans to invest approximately A$32 million in a dedicated cargo terminal at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI). This investment underscores the company’s continued dedication to the aviation industry in New South Wales and Australia.

The facility will feature a 5,000 sqm warehouse within WSI’s 24-hour Cargo Precinct, along with an additional 4,000 sqm of land. The site is to be handed over as a cold shell, with dnata responsible for the complete development of the terminal, which will include critical infrastructure and a semi-motorised materials handling system.

Of the total investment, around A$6 million is earmarked for the purchase of advanced equipment and technology. This investment will facilitate efficient and scalable operations, particularly for time- and temperature-sensitive cargo like pharmaceuticals.

Freighter operations are slated to begin in July 2026, before the full passenger services at the airport are introduced later this year. Once operational, the terminal's annual cargo handling capacity will reach 60,000 tonnes, enhancing air freight capabilities in New South Wales.

In its initial phase, the project is anticipated to generate approximately 50 direct jobs, with further employment growth as operations expand. It is also expected to bolster opportunities in logistics, freight forwarding, and ground handling in Western Sydney.

Simon Hickey, CEO of WSI, stated that dnata's entry enhances the airport's 24-hour cargo hub and fortifies national supply chains, while creating jobs and improving freight connectivity. The cargo precinct will benefit from major transport routes and surrounding logistics hubs, such as Kemps Creek and the Aerotropolis.

Catherine King, Federal Minister for Infrastructure, commented that this initiative will integrate Western Sydney into global trade networks and sustain Australia’s evolving logistics sector.

The WSI cargo precinct has been designed for future growth, with the capacity to manage at least 220,000 tonnes of freight annually and accommodate up to eight wide-body aircraft simultaneously.

This investment further supports dnata’s previous plans to build an advanced inflight catering facility at WSI, which will have the capability of producing up to 3 million meals each year.

Currently, dnata operates across nine airports in Australia, handling approximately 300,000 tonnes of cargo and managing more than 107,000 aircraft movements annually. The company is also responsible for supplying over 54 million airline meals per year and employs around 8,000 personnel, highlighting its vital role in Australia’s aviation and logistics sectors.

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