Western Sydney International Airport Adds Two 3D X-ray Units Before First International Arrival

Western Sydney International Airport has received two state-of-the-art 3D X-ray units and detector dog teams ahead of its first international arrival on 26 October 2026, part of more than $2 billion in additional biosecurity resourcing since 2022. Mirage News reported the delivery, which the Albanese Labor Government said will protect Australia's agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors, valued at more than $100 billion.

The Equipment Delivered to Western Sydney International Airport

The installation of two 3D X-ray units places Western Sydney International Airport at the forefront of next-generation biosecurity screening, according to the report. Combined with highly trained biosecurity officers, the technology is intended to support more targeted screening, stronger risk detection and efficient passenger processing.

Detector dogs form another layer of the system, trained to identify more than 200 biosecurity risk commodities including meat, fruit and seeds. In 2025, biosecurity detector dogs intercepted over 45,500 biosecurity risk items arriving at international airports and mail gateway facilities.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said: "As part of Western Sydney International Airport preparing to welcome international travellers, we're ensuring Australia's biosecurity is front and centre of operations."

Collins also said the government has delivered over $2 billion in additional funding to strengthen the biosecurity system. Member for Werriwa Anne Stanley said the investment in contemporary biosecurity infrastructure would ensure the airport is equipped to manage risks from the start of international operations.

Cargo, Lounges and Flights Before the Opening

Western Sydney International Airport opened its cargo precinct and began cargo operations on 27 July 2026, adding 33% additional capacity to Australia's aviation sector, Mirage News reported. Menzies Aviation handled the first cargo flights that day, according to Aviationpros.

On 17 October 2026, the airport announced its first lounge ahead of passenger flights on 25 October, EIN Presswire reported. The airline-agnostic lounge is designed for business travellers, with self-service kiosks, automated border control and next-generation security scanners.

In August 2026, The Australian reported a partnership with VietJet to launch discounted return flights to Ho Chi Minh City from January 2027, ramping up to three weekly flights by March 2027.

What Happens After 26 October 2026

International operations at Western Sydney International Airport begin on 26 October 2026, when the first international arrival is due. The airport's own announcement is available at its official site.