TAA CEO Michael Johnson addresses delegates at Western Sydney Airport’s visitor zone.

Updates into the design and construction of the future Western Sydney Airport were provided to dozens of hotel General Managers and Sales/Marketing leaders during a visit this week to the burgeoning aerotropolis.

Led by Tourism Accommodation Australia CEO, Michael Johnson, the group learned from Aero Partnerships Executive Manager, Stevan Sipka, about the numerous tourism opportunities which will present themselves as the airport continues to develop.

The varied commercial developments, including hotel opportunities both within, near to and in suburbs surrounding the aerotropolis were also discussed. The group also had the opportunity to witness some of the important technological innovations expected to form part of the new airport from its opening, expected in 2026.

Dubbed Sydney’s ‘smart airport’ and named after pioneering aviatrix Nancy-Bird Walton, the airport is expected to cater initially to 10 million domestic and international visitors annually.

“Mr Sipka also provided an insight into the commercial development of the Aerotropolis site and gave an overview of the opportunities which will exist for operators, including hotels, wishing to locate and operate in the area,” Johnson said.

Both Qantas and Virgin Australia have entered into Memorandums of Understanding with the new airport’s operators, with details shared with the TAA group as an indication of confidence from both major carriers that the airport proceeds with certainty.