Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport
Sydney, Australia · Since 1920
Last updated:
About SYD
Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, affectionately known as Sydney Airport or simply Kingsford Smith, is Australia's oldest and busiest airport, serving as the primary international gateway to Australia. Located 8 kilometers south of the Sydney CBD in Mascot, the airport is named after the pioneering aviator Sir Charles Kingsford Smith. The airport operates from three terminals: T1 for international flights, and T2/T3 for domestic services. Sydney Airport handles nearly half of all international visitors to Australia and is the hub for Australia's flag carrier Qantas. The airport offers spectacular views of Botany Bay and the runway approach passes iconic Sydney landmarks.
Why "SYD"?
SYD is the IATA code from Sydney, Australia's largest city. The airport is also named after aviation pioneer Sir Charles Kingsford Smith.
Hub For
Qantas Airways, Jetstar, Virgin Australia
Airlines Operating
Qantas Airways, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Regional Express (Rex), Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand, Fiji Airways, Air Vanuatu, Japan Airlines, ANA, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, China Airlines, EVA Air, Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Malaysia Airlines, Thai Airways, Garuda Indonesia, Philippine Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Air India, British Airways, American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, LATAM, Air Canada
Terminals
Terminal 1 (International)
International terminal handling all overseas flights. Recently renovated with improved shopping and dining. Located separately from domestic terminals.
Terminal 2 (Domestic)
Domestic terminal serving Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex, and other domestic carriers. Adjacent to T3.
Terminal 3 (Domestic)
Dedicated Qantas domestic terminal. Connected to T2 via walkway. Features Qantas Business and First Class lounges.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at SYD
Showing 8 of 52 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Airport Link train connects to Central Station and the city in 13-15 minutes (AUD $18.70 one-way, expensive but convenient). Station Access Fee applies in addition to regular train fare. Bus routes 400, 420, and 350 connect to various Sydney suburbs. Taxis to Sydney CBD cost approximately AUD $45-60. Uber and DiDi available with pickup at designated areas. Pre-booked shuttle services connect to suburbs and regional areas. Rental cars available at the airport with direct highway access to the city and beyond. Sydney ferries accessible from Circular Quay after train connection.
Taxi
A$45-65
20-30 minutes to city center
Public Transport
A$19.04 (train to Central)
15 minutes to Central Station to city center
Parking at SYD
P1-P3 at T1 (international), P6-P7 at domestic terminals. Express pickup areas. Pre-book online for savings....
P1 Blu Emu (T1 Short)
P3 Express (T1)
P6-P7 Domestic
Blu Emu Long Stay
Airport Lounges
Qantas First Lounge
One of the world's best airline lounges with Neil Perry-designed menu, day spa, and stunning views of the runway.
Qantas Business Lounge
Premium lounge with excellent food, barista coffee, and comfortable work areas.
Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge
Well-appointed Star Alliance lounge with Asian and Western cuisine options.
The House (SkyTeam)
SkyTeam alliance lounge with modern design and good food selection.
American Express Lounge
Amex-branded lounge in T1 with complimentary food and drinks for cardholders.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Rydges Sydney Airport
Connected to T1 international via covered walkway
The only hotel connected to the international terminal. Rooftop pool with runway views. Day rooms available.
Nearby Hotels
Ibis Budget Sydney Airport
5-minute walk from domestic terminals
Budget hotel within walking distance of T2 and T3. No frills but clean and convenient.
Holiday Inn Sydney Airport
Free shuttle, 10 minutes from terminals
Full-service hotel with free airport shuttle, pool, restaurant, and modern rooms.
Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport
Adjacent to domestic terminals
Upscale hotel near domestic terminals with restaurant, bar, gym, and day rooms.
Food & Dining
McDonald's
Fast Food
Fast food available in T1 international departures.
24/7
Guzman y Gomez
Mexican
Popular Australian-Mexican chain with fresh burritos, tacos, and nachos.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sumo Salad
Healthy/Salads
Healthy fast food with fresh salads, wraps, and smoothies.
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Oporto
Portuguese/Chicken
Australian fast food chain specializing in Portuguese-style flame-grilled chicken.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Bar Roma
Italian
Italian restaurant in T1 international departures with pasta, pizza, and coffee.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Starbucks
Café
Coffee shop in T1 departures.
4:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Car Rental
Hertz
T1 arrivals, car rental hall
Major brand with counter at T1 international. Also at T2/T3 domestic.
Avis
T1 arrivals, car rental hall
Wide fleet. Perfect for Blue Mountains day trip or driving north to Hunter Valley.
Budget
T1 arrivals, car rental hall
Budget-friendly option. E-Tag for Sydney toll roads usually included.
Thrifty
T1 arrivals, car rental hall
Australian brand with competitive rates. Good for road trips down the coast.
Europcar
T1 arrivals, car rental hall
EV options growing. Remember Australians drive on the left side of the road.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Duty-Free Shopping
Shop for Australian wines, UGG boots, Australian-made skincare, Tim Tams, and Aboriginal art at T1 duty-free.
Qantas First Lounge Experience
If you have access, the Qantas First Lounge features a Neil Perry-designed menu, day spa, and is regarded as one of the world's best.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
The Rocks Historic Quarter
Explore Sydney's oldest neighborhood near Circular Quay with colonial architecture, markets (weekends), art galleries, and pubs.
Darling Harbour
Train to Town Hall and walk to Darling Harbour for waterfront dining, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and the Chinese Garden of Friendship.
Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge
Train to Circular Quay (22 min) to see Sydney's iconic landmarks. Walk across the Harbour Bridge or take a guided Opera House tour.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Take the train and bus to Bondi Beach and walk the spectacular 6km coastal trail to Coogee Beach. One of Sydney's best free experiences.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type I (Australian)
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: From A$15/day
- Showers: Free in lounges
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD/A$)
- Exchange: Travelex and other exchange offices in T1 arrivals and departures. ATMs throughout all terminals.
- Hours: Most open for first and last flights (5:00 AM - 11:00 PM)
- Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Australia but appreciated for exceptional service. 10% at restaurants is generous. Not necessary for taxis.
Airport exchange rates are poor. Use ATMs or exchange money in the CBD for better rates. Westpac ATMs at the airport have no international fees for some cards.
Smoking Areas
No indoor smoking. Designated outdoor smoking areas outside each terminal.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +61 2 9667 9583
Contact the airline for items left on aircraft. Airport lost property at +61 2 9667 9111.
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
All visitors (except New Zealand citizens) need a visa or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) before arrival. ETA available online for eligible passport holders.
Valid passport required. ETA or eVisitor visa for eligible nationalities. Strict biosecurity - declare all food, plant material, and animal products. Customs declaration card required.
When to Fly
Best time: September-November and March-May for mild weather
Peak seasons: December-February (Australian summer/Christmas), school holidays, Easter
Insider Tips
The Airport Link train is convenient but expensive - consider the 400 bus to Bondi Junction for a cheaper (if slower) alternative. T1 (international) and T2/T3 (domestic) are in separate locations - allow 15-20 minutes for the free transfer bus between them. If flying Qantas, the lounge access is among the best in their network. Check curfew times - Sydney Airport has strict noise restrictions with limited operations between 11 PM and 6 AM. The Rocks and Circular Quay are just a short train ride away for layover exploration. Australian biosecurity is strict - declare all food items and ensure hiking boots are clean. Pre-order duty-free for collection on departure.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Recently renovated international terminal (T1) with improved shopping and dining. Extensive duty-free shopping for Australian products including wine, UGG boots, and Aboriginal art. Heinemann Duty Free offers competitive prices. Several lounges including Qantas First and Business Lounges, The House (SkyTeam), and American Express Lounge. Free WiFi throughout all terminals. Prayer rooms and family facilities available. Various dining options from quick service to sit-down restaurants. Observation deck and smoking areas (outdoors). Sydney Airport provides live flight tracking through its app.
Official Website
Phone
+61 2 9667 9111