SYDNEY, Australia – The Australian government has approved Sydney Airport’s Master Plan, setting the stage for it to handle more than 72 million passengers a year by 2045.
Sydney Airport said Friday in a news release that the plan sets out the long-term vision for how the airport will grow over the next two decades. The release did not disclose the cost of the expansion, but local media reports put the project at about A$6 billion.
The plan forecasts the airport will handle more than 72 million passengers annually by 2045, including 36.4 million international passengers and 36.2 million domestic and regional passengers.
Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said the plan provides a pathway to meet future demand and invest in infrastructure needed as Sydney grows.
“As Australia’s international gateway, this plan ensures we can continue supporting tourism, trade, investment and jobs while delivering the capacity needed for future generations,” Charlton said.
The airport’s annual economic contribution is expected to increase to about $70 billion, while direct employment at the airport is forecast to rise to more than 105,000 jobs.
The Master Plan provides for future investment in terminal capacity, transportation connections and passenger facilities to support the projected growth.
A central element is the proposed redevelopment of the airport’s domestic precinct, including plans to bring domestic, regional and international services together through a new integrated terminal experience.
The plan also incorporates Sydney Airport’s five-year Airport Environment Strategy, which outlines measures to reduce emissions, build climate resilience and support more sustainable airport operations.
Charlton said the plan provides a framework for the airport to grow sustainably and responsibly while minimizing environmental impacts and working with surrounding communities.
Sydney Airport is currently Australia’s busiest airport and ranked 58th worldwide by total passenger traffic in 2024, according to Airports Council International.