Sydney Airport has recorded its strongest first quarter for international travel, with passenger growth driven by sustained demand and expanded airline capacity.
More than 4.57 million international passengers passed through the airport in Q1 2026, marking a 5.8 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Total passenger volumes rose 3.6 per cent year-on-year to 10.78 million travellers.
Domestic travel also increased, with 6.20 million passengers using the T2 and T3 terminals, up 2.1 per cent on Q1 2025.
Growth across international markets was led by strong demand throughout the Asia-Pacific region. New Zealand and China remained the airport’s largest international markets, with passenger numbers rising by 13.5 per cent and 14.0 per cent respectively. Travel to and from Hong Kong also saw significant growth, increasing by 21.4 per cent.
Passenger volumes to Kuala Lumpur and Guangzhou rose by 32.3 per cent and 38.5 per cent respectively, while other major destinations including Shanghai and Seoul also recorded steady increases.
Infrastructure upgrades continued across the airport, with 15 new self-service BagTag and check-in kiosks installed in Terminal 2, alongside six automated bag drop systems now in operation.
Sydney Airport Chief Executive Officer, Scott Charlton, said the results reflected strong underlying demand despite global uncertainty.
“This quarter’s record international growth is a great outcome, particularly given the disruption in the Middle East, where many airlines have faced significant operational impacts since late February,” Charlton said.
“Growth across China and broader Asia is increasingly supporting travel into Europe, helping to offset softer conditions in parts of the Middle East.
“This performance reflects resilient demand for travel to and from Sydney and reinforces Sydney Airport’s role as the nation’s primary international gateway.
“As we move into the second quarter, airlines are adjusting their networks in response to geopolitical developments and fuel conditions, primarily through short-term routing changes rather than broader shifts in demand.
“Where capacity changes have occurred, they have been tactical and short term, and we continue to monitor for any longer-term structural impacts.
“From a fuel perspective, the outlook remains stable, with no current indications of supply constraints impacting airline planning or near-term operations.
“The aviation market continues to demonstrate adaptability, and Sydney Airport is well positioned to support growth as conditions evolve.”
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