Australian mega project completed almost seven months early

The runway and terminal of The new Western Sydney International. Image: Bechtel

Bechtel, serving as Delivery Partner on the project, said that this mean that WSI would be able to commence passenger and cargo flights in late 2026, welcoming up to ten million passengers per year in its initial phase.

The project is Australia’s first international, greenfield airport in over 50 years and has been a catalyst for economic development. The entire WSI project has created 11,650 annual full-time equivalent jobs, with over half coming from the local area. The hub is projected to increase Australia’s GDP by AU$23.9 billion by 2060.

“This project epitomises the schedule and budget benefits that come with a fit-for-purpose delivery model with clear roles and accountability,” said Darren Mort, President of Bechtel’s Infrastructure Business.

“We are proud to have delivered value and a positive social impact for taxpayers, and we look forward to supporting WSI as it prepares to welcome passengers next year.”

Bechtel has been working on the WSI project since 2018 with the responsibility to support the procurement and management of top-tier contractors delivering construction packages, including earthworks, terminal, runway, landside, and technology, totalling AU$5.3 billion (US$3.5 billion). Bechtel managed the budget and contracts, and strategically sequenced work to improve the schedule and maximise value.

WSI is expected to become Australia’s largest international gateway by 2063. With future expansion and the addition of a second runway and eventual fourth terminal, the airport could handle over 80 million passengers annually, on par with global hubs like Hong Kong International and London Heathrow airports.

Triggered by the airport development, the New South Wales state government is building new infrastructure, including a dedicated airport metro line to enable improved transport infrastructure for the surrounding communities.

Bechtel continues to support WSI with ongoing work required to prepare the airport for opening, ahead of the operational readiness and airport transfer program beginning later this year.