Western Sydney Airport opened its doors to the public and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese yesterday with a special grand opening.
The decor, inspired by the Blue Mountains, led the Prime Minister to describe it as Australia’s ‘most Instagrammable Airport’.
The airport has been designed to actively reduce stress, CEO Simon Hickey told members of the press, public and travel industry who attended the event.
The warm sandstone undulating sky lights have been designed to mimic the Blue Mountains.
With its focus on design and customer experience, Western Sydney Airport might be breaking a new frontier for Australia’s airports.
But the real question is, is it the Southern Hemisphere’s sexiest airport? It has some contenders:
Hamad International Airport
Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha, Qatar, is a strikingly modern and luxurious airport well known for its elegant design, efficiency, and high-end amenities. Serving as Qatar Airways’ main hub, it features spacious terminals with soaring ceilings, marble floors, and art installations—including the iconic giant teddy bear sculpture by Urs Fischer.
Travelers can experience world-class lounges, designer shopping, wellness facilities, quiet rooms, and a swimming pool. HIA consistently ranks among the world’s best airports for service and cleanliness. With smooth immigration processes, attentive staff, and convenient connections, it offers a calm, premium travel experience and a major gateway between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Singapore Changi Airport
Singapore Changi Airport has long been renowned for its efficiency, luxury, and innovation. With four terminals and the iconic Jewel complex, it offers travelers indoor gardens, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, luxury shopping, and diverse dining. Amenities like free movie theatres, a rooftop pool, and butterfly and cactus gardens make it stand up. Known for its exceptional cleanliness, friendly staff, and smooth passenger experience, Changi frequently tops global airport rankings.
The Airport is currently undergoing an upgrade with the new Terminal 5. Designed by KPF, Heatherwick Studio, and local firm architects61, the upcoming terminal is envisioned as a next-generation air hub capable of handling 50 million passengers annually.
Complete with state-of-the-art automation, green design, and intuitive architecture, T5 is set to be both mega and cozy, reshaping Singapore’s global gateway as it prepares for the future of air travel for decades to come.
Zayed International Airport
Zayed International Airport, formerly Abu Dhabi International Airport, is the main airport serving the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Recently renamed in honor of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the airport is a symbol of modernity, luxury, and cultural pride.
Its new Terminal A, opened in 2023, is a state-of-the-art facility with sleek, futuristic architecture, designed to handle up to 45 million passengers annually. The terminal features high-end shopping, fine dining, art installations, and spacious lounges, including the Etihad Airways lounges.
With efficient services, smart technology, and a calm, elegant atmosphere, Zayed International Airport reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing global presence and ambition as a premium travel hub.
Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport (HND), officially Tokyo International Airport, is one of Japan’s busiest and most efficient airports, located just 30 minutes from central Tokyo. Known for its cleanliness, punctuality, and user-friendly design, Haneda offers a seamless travel experience for both domestic and international passengers.
The airport features three terminals, with Terminal 3 dedicated to international flights. Travelers enjoy a wide range of amenities, including traditional Japanese shops, gourmet dining, capsule hotels, observation decks, and even a replica Edo-style street.
Blending modern convenience with Japanese hospitality, Haneda is a favorite among travelers for its comfort, accessibility, and cultural charm.
Incheon International Airport, Seoul
Incheon International Airport (ICN), located near Seoul, South Korea, is one of the world’s top-rated airports, known for its efficiency, cleanliness, and exceptional passenger experience. It serves as a major hub for East Asia and offers a seamless blend of modern technology and Korean culture.
The airport features sleek architecture, spacious terminals, and a wide range of amenities including luxury shopping, cultural performances, a Korean culture museum, tranquil gardens, and spa services. Travelers enjoy fast immigration, friendly service, and efficient transfers.
With high-speed rail connections to Seoul and beyond, Incheon offers both convenience and a memorable gateway to South Korea.
