dnata takes off at Western Sydney International, bringing integrated aviation services to Australia’s newest gateway

Sydney, Australia, 27 October 2026: dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, has launched operations at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), supporting the launch of passenger flights at Australia's newest international aviation gateway. 

The company played a key role in the airport's historic opening, providing inflight catering for its inaugural domestic flight on 25 October and ground handling services for its first international flight on 26 October.

Alongside its ground handling and catering activities, the company will operate The Rayleigh Lounge, WSI's first international passenger lounge.

dnata's growing presence at WSI is supported by significant investments in dedicated cargo and catering facilities, both currently under development. The cargo facility is expected to begin operations in December this year, followed by the catering facility in 2027.

Supporting a new era of aviation in Western Sydney

Burt Sigsworth, Managing Director, dnata Airport Operations – Australia, said: “The opening of Western Sydney International marks an exciting new chapter for Australian aviation, and we're incredibly proud to have played a part in it from day one. Supporting the airport's first passenger flights is a significant achievement for our teams and the result of close collaboration with our airline partners and the wider airport community.

“We're building a long-term presence at WSI, investing in the infrastructure, technology and people needed to support its future growth. We’ll continue working with our partners to strengthen international connectivity, support Australian trade and create new opportunities for the Western Sydney community.”

As part of this commitment, dnata is investing approximately A$32 million in a purpose-built cargo terminal within WSI's 24-hour Cargo Precinct.

The 5,000 sqm facility is designed to handle up to 60,000 tonnes of cargo annually at maturity. When it opens, it will feature modern handling systems and specialised infrastructure to support a range of cargo, including temperature-sensitive shipments.

The development is expected to create approximately 50 direct jobs in its initial phase, with opportunities for further growth as operations expand.

Delivering quality catering and passenger hospitality

Through its Catering & Retail arm, dnata is also making a significant investment in a new inflight catering centre at WSI, with operations expected to commence next year. In the interim, the company will serve its airline customers at WSI from its catering facility at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, ensuring continuity of service.

When it opens, the 3,250 sqm facility will have the capacity to produce up to three million meals annually, supporting domestic and international airline customers as the airport grows. It is expected to create more than 200 direct jobs over the next decade.

Gareth Rees, Regional Chief Executive Officer, dnata Catering & Retail – Australia and Southeast Asia, said: “There's something special about being part of an airport's very first passenger flights. We're delighted that our catering teams have helped bring this new gateway to life, and we're equally excited about the opportunity to grow alongside Western Sydney International.

“Our new catering facility represents a significant investment in the region and our future capabilities. We're combining modern infrastructure and operational expertise with a focus on quality, while looking to build strong relationships with local suppliers and producers. We're proud to contribute to the development of an aviation hub that will create new opportunities for Western Sydney.”

Complementing its aviation services, dnata will also operate The Rayleigh Lounge. Located within WSI's international terminal, the lounge will offer travellers a premium hospitality experience inspired by Western Sydney's diverse communities and food culture. Its offering will celebrate locally sourced ingredients through a menu reflecting the region's culinary diversity.

The lounge is expected to welcome its first eligible passengers in November this year, further strengthening dnata's presence at the airport.

Building on a strong Australian presence

dnata's operations at WSI build on its established network across Australia, where it employs approximately 8,000 people and provides ground handling, cargo, catering and airport hospitality services to airline customers. The company supports more than 107,000 aircraft movements and processes around 300,000 tonnes of cargo annually, while its catering division produces and delivers more than 54 million meals each year for airline partners.

Through its expanding presence in Western Sydney, dnata is reinforcing its long-term commitment to Australia's aviation industry, investing in future capacity, creating employment opportunities and contributing to the region's economic growth.