As of last week, the airport has seen 12.55 million travellers come through its international terminal this year, putting it on track to break its all-time international passenger record.
International passenger numbers increased by 6.6 per cent in Q3 compared to the same July to September period last year. Capacity on international services in and out of Sydney is also up by four per cent year on year.
Arrivals from a handful of countries rose markedly during Q3.
Events are likely responsible for the 26.1 per cent increase in the number of British citizens transiting through Sydney Airport, with the once-in-12-years British and Irish Lions Tour of Australia taking place this winter.
Meanwhile Indonesian passport holders coming through Sydney Airport jumped by 12.9 per cent, Chinese travellers were up 11.6 per cent and Japanese arrivals up by 7.2 per cent.
Route frequency and passenger capacity is continuing to ramp up at Sydney Airport.
In June, Virgin Australia resumed long haul international flying out of Sydney, with daily flights to Doha in Qatar. In the same month, Turkish Airlines increased its Sydney-Istanbul flights to five services a week, with that number rising again to six last month.
Meanwhile, Etihad Airways increased flights out of Sydney to the UAE to ten per week from daily on July 1.
And this month, Malaysia Airlines will add a third daily service between Sydney and Kuala Lumpur.
“Q3 was another quarter of steady growth, supported by inbound demand from key markets including the United Kingdom, China and Indonesia,” said Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton.
“The recovery in these markets, combined with the continued return of airline capacity, reflects the strength of Sydney’s position as Australia’s international gateway.
“This performance demonstrates the value of our partnerships with airlines, the Australian Border Force and government agencies as we work together to deliver more efficient and seamless passenger journeys.
“It also shows that the investments we are making in screening technology, terminal upgrades and digital services are improving the travel experience across all terminals.
“What’s particularly pleasing is that these results were achieved while major infrastructure works continued across the precinct.
“Our operational teams have maintained consistent performance and reliability through a period of high activity, ensuring passengers continue to enjoy an efficient and welcoming airport experience.”
