dnata Catering & Retail has invested $17mn to build an in-flight catering centre at Western Sydney International Airport (WSI)’s Cargo Precinct.
Construction of the new 3,200 square-metre facility is already underway and slated for completion in late 2026. It will be capable of producing three million meals annually.
Mark Stubbings, chief commercial officer of dnata Catering & Retail Australia, said the company’s investment at Western Sydney International Airport underlines its “strong, long-term commitment to the Australian aviation industry”.
He said: “Our highly trained team, advanced facility and equipment will deliver world-class services and products, helping WSI establish itself as a leading international aviation hub.
“We are excited to contribute to the airport’s growth and success with our innovative approach and passion for excellence.”
dnata will begin recruiting chefs, drivers and catering assistants at the Cargo Precinct facility from 2026.
“Thousands of workers, many of whom live in Western Sydney, have helped build this transformational greenfield airport, so I’m pleased to confirm that dnata’s investment will also create more than 200 new, direct jobs over the next 10 years,” Stubbings added.
Simon Hickey, CEO of Western Sydney International Airport, said dnata’s investment is another signal of the airport’s rapid progress and premier airline offering as the business prepares for take-off in late 2026.
“dnata is investing in WSI and investing in the future growth and opportunities this airport will offer top-tier airlines when we open next year,” Hickey said.
“Being situated within our on-airport Cargo Precinct presents unrivalled operational efficiencies for dnata and airlines – including seamless integration and proximity to the terminal as well as dedicated airside access.”
According to dnata, its new catering facility will incorporate the latest technologies in design and operation to minimise environmental footprint.
This includes energy-efficient equipment, a recycled water system and waste treatment plant.
dnata’s agreement with the airport also allows the caterer to expand the site as airline customers grow in line with airport demand, reaching a total of up to 6,400 square-metres.
Hickey added: “Like everything at WSI, dnata’s centre is built for growth so it can expand as demand grows over the decades ahead, which will also create more and more jobs.”
