Western Sydney International Airport
Realising COX Architecture & Zaha Hadid Architects' Vision at Western Sydney International Airport
Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is a landmark infrastructure project set to begin operations in 2026, establishing a new global gateway for Australia. Designed by COX Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects, with Woods Bagot appointed as Lead Design and Delivery Architect, the terminal delivers a contemporary civic space defined by clarity of form, passenger experience and operational efficiency.
The design has been carried through delivery by Woods Bagot, with COX Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects retained to uphold the original design intent from concept through to completion.
For this major development, SAS International supplied approximately 10,000m² of SAS200 and SAS205 metal ceiling systems for key passenger zones, including arrivals, departures, walkways and the baggage claim area. These high-traffic spaces required ceiling solutions that balance architectural refinement with durability and long-term accessibility.
The SAS200 and SAS205 metal pan systems were selected for their clean, consistent appearance and concealed grid, creating a cohesive ceiling plane across expansive areas of the terminal. Their hook-on design allows full access to services above, supporting ongoing maintenance in a complex operational environment. With acoustic infill incorporated where required, the systems contribute to sound absorption, helping control reverberation and maintain speech clarity across large passenger volumes.
Craig Penton, General Manager, SAS International Australia, said,
"Western Sydney International Airport represents a significant milestone for Australian infrastructure. Supplying 10,000m² of SAS200 and SAS205 to this project reflects both the scale of the development and the confidence placed in our systems to perform in demanding transport environments. We are proud to contribute to key passenger areas that shape the journey from arrival to departure."
Environmental performance and long-term adaptability were central to the airport’s design. The terminal is targeting a 5 Star Green Star rating, incorporating natural ventilation and daylighting strategies alongside a modular planning approach that supports future expansion and evolving technologies. The roof’s aerodynamic single-ridge form, inspired by aircraft wings, reinforces the building’s identity while aiding intuitive wayfinding. With cargo operations scheduled to commence in July 2026 and the first passenger flights in October 2026, the project signals a new era in sustainable, future-ready aviation infrastructure in Australia.
Sector:
Transport
Architect:
Cox Architecture, Zaha Hadid Architects & Woods Bagot
General Contractor :
Subcontractor:
Photographer :
Completion Year:
2025
System Type:
SAS200 & SAS205
Region:
Sydney, Australia
