There are around 1,000 road signs across the Sydney metropolitan area featuring a blue and white aeroplane symbol giving directions to Kingsford Smith airport.
Now a major program will be undertaken to update signage to include our second airport, Western Sydney International, in time for its opening next year.
With the airport’s opening in 2026, the aim of the Transport for NSW program is to provide clear, up to date signage to guide drivers, reduce congestion, reduce confusion and improve safety.
By updating road signage, it also aims to facilitate smooth traffic flow, enhance safety, and support the region’s growth and connectivity.
The $30 million signage program has been funded by the NSW Government.
As part of this project, Transport for NSW undertook a comprehensive study, including international best practice, to develop a clear signage strategy.
This strategy uses the three-letter IATA codes “SYD” for Kingsford Smith International Airport and “WSI” for Western Sydney International Airport to clearly distinguish between the two airports.
It also limits airport signage to no more than two motorway interchanges from each airport or key decision points on the network.
The new signs will retain the familiar blue and white aeroplane symbol to maintain consistency and ease of recognition.
The updated signage will be kept simple and incorporate modern reflective materials developed by Transport for NSW, making them clearer to read, longer lasting, and more resilient in Sydney’s harsh weather conditions.
The new signs will replace ones that were originally put in place as part of preparations for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, which in turn replaced a series of localised signs that had been in place for several decades.
The new updated signs will be more concentrated along major routes across the city, which may result in some signage being removed from local streets.
While most Sydneysiders are familiar with the locations of both airports, the new signage is designed to be especially helpful for tourists and visitors navigating the city.
As part of the program, new signage will also be installed around the Western Sydney International Airport precinct, including the directions to the toll-free M12 Motorway and the airport access road, Warami Drive.
The rollout is now under way, with the new signage expected to be installed before the opening of Western Sydney International Airport next year.