Passengers on board Jetstar flight JQ362 applauded spontaneously as the aircraft became the first commercial plane to depart from Western Sydney International Airport on Monday. The Airbus A320-Neo took off on a one-hour flight to the Gold Coast, marking a significant milestone for the new airport.

Seven-year-old passenger Ethan Leslie had greeted travelers with a welcome message before boarding, inviting them to “sit back, relax and enjoy the flight.” Ethan’s mother, Corinne Leslie, said the pre-flight announcement was arranged by Jetstar after the family took part in a trial passenger day at the airport, describing the moment as a “dream come true” for her aviation-enthusiast son.

Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully confirmed the inaugural flight had sold out rapidly, attracting a crowd of aviation enthusiasts eager to witness the historic departure. “It was a flight full of joy and energy,” Tully said. “So many customers wanted to be a part of history in the making.”

Among the 188 passengers was three-month-old Jonah Anbalgan, who slept comfortably in his mother Emily’s arms throughout the journey. Emily expressed that they specifically chose the first flight from Western Sydney International for Jonah’s first flying experience.

A standout moment came when seven-year-old co-pilot Aglaya Papadokokolakis was surprised by the presence of her mother, Vicky, who had been quietly brought aboard the flight. The unexpected reunion brought the cabin to cheers. Vicky Papadokokolakis described her pride not only in her daughter’s role on the flight deck but also in the broader significance of the airport for Western Sydney and the country.

Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun was also among the passengers, calling the milestone “a great day for Western Sydney,” highlighting the airport’s importance to the region’s development and connectivity.

The inaugural flight from Western Sydney International marks the beginning of commercial operations at the facility, which is anticipated to play a key role in expanding air travel capacity in the area and supporting economic growth.