First 737 Touches Down at Western Sydney International
Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) moved a step closer to becoming a fully operational airport with the arrival of its first Boeing 737, marking a clear transition from the construction phase to live aviation activity. The touchdown of the NSW Rural Fire Service Boeing 737 large air tanker “Marie Bashir”, operated by Coulson Aviation Australia, represented a significant milestone for the airport. Aircraft of this type are expected to form a core part of future domestic and short-haul international operations, making the flight an important real-world validation of the runway, navigation infrastructure, and overall airfield design.
Federal infrastructure officials and airport leadership took the opportunity to highlight what the event meant for the project. Simon Hickey, Chief Executive Officer of Western Sydney International Airport, said:
“This will be the most significant simulation we’ve carried out to date and it’s a positive opportunity for our airport staff and all first responders to test our collective resources, protocols and general preparedness in a safe, controlled environment.”
Hickey added that the landing itself was also a key moment:
“It also marks a significant milestone for Sydney’s new 24-hour airport, with our first 737 jet aircraft landing at WSI’s technologically enabled airfield – a big moment that included welcoming many community onlookers and media on site to capture the historic arrival.”
The day was not solely about the landing. Shortly after the aircraft touched down, airport emergency services conducted a planned response exercise, testing procedures, coordination, and reaction times. Emergency services including Airfield Firefighters, NSW Police from the Penrith area, the NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, and NSW Ambulance were mobilised across the airfield. The exercise demonstrated access routes and on-scene command under simulated emergency conditions. These drills form a critical component of pre-opening certification and highlight the emphasis being placed on safety from the outset.
At the same time, a series of operational validations took place behind the scenes, including air traffic control procedures, ground handling movements, and live testing of airport systems. Each activity contributed valuable data that will inform final refinements as the airport edges closer to welcoming passengers.
While construction continues across the terminal precinct and surrounding infrastructure, the first 737 arrival provided a tangible preview of the airport’s future role. It marked an early but important step in transforming Western Sydney International from a major infrastructure project into a functioning aviation gateway, offering a glimpse of how it will ultimately integrate into Sydney’s broader aviation network.
