Another piece of the puzzle is in place at Western Sydney International Airport, which is due to open late next year.
The new 24-hour airport has joined forces with Australia’s leading inflight caterer to serve up services that harness local produce for domestic and international airlines and their passengers.
The deal means Dnata Catering & Retail will invest $17 million to build an advanced inflight catering centre within the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) cargo precinct.
The centre will be capable of producing three million quality meals each year. It will also lead to a jobs boom for locals who work in the hospitality industry and other areas.
“Our highly trained team, advanced facility and equipment will deliver world-class services and products, helping WSI establish itself as a leading international aviation hub,” says Dnata chief commercial officer Mark Stubbings.
“We are excited to contribute to the airport’s growth and success with our innovative approach and passion for excellence.”
Mr Stubbings added that Dnata’s operations will create more meaningful job opportunities as well, with recruitment set to begin in 2026 for a wide range of roles, including chefs, drivers, and catering attendants.
“Thousands of workers – many of whom live in Western Sydney – have helped build this transformational greenfield airport, so I’m pleased to confirm that our investment will also create more than 200 new, direct jobs over the next 10 years,” he said.
WSI chief executive officer Simon Hickey said Dnata’s investment is another decisive signal of the airport’s rapid progress and premier airline offering as the business prepares for take-off in late 2026.
“Dnata is investing in WSI and investing in the future growth and opportunities this airport will offer top-tier airlines when we open next year,” he said.
“Being situated within our on-airport cargo precinct presents unrivalled operational efficiencies for Dnata and airlines – including seamless integration and proximity to the terminal as well as dedicated airside access.
“What’s more, WSI’s prime location in Australia’s multicultural heartland and brand new transport connections can also give Dnata ‘food for thought’ in supporting access to the state’s local produce and vibrant regional food scene.”
Construction of the Dnata facility within WSI’s cargo precinct is already under way (pictured below) and expected to be completed in late 2026.
Its initial $17 million investment also includes a fleet of ground support equipment, such as catering trucks and light vehicles.
