Sydney Airport has begun rolling out 50 new electric buses across its airside and landside operations, progressively replacing diesel vehicles used to move passengers and staff around the airport precinct.
The fleet includes 25 dual-control airfield apron buses and 25 electric shuttle buses. The vehicles were supplied by Australian manufacturer Bus & Coach International.
What passengers will notice
The change is not only about the power source. New digital information displays on buses and at stops will provide live estimates for waiting and journey times, helping passengers work out whether they are at the right stop and how long a transfer is likely to take.
Electric buses should also provide quieter transport around terminals, parking areas and airside operations as the older diesel vehicles are progressively replaced.
Part of Sydney Airport’s emissions plan
Sydney Airport says the buses will run on renewable electricity sourced through its power purchase agreement and will reduce emissions from its own operations.
The project forms part of the airport’s target to reach net zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2030. Those categories broadly cover emissions produced directly by the airport and emissions associated with the electricity it purchases.
Dharawal artwork across the fleet
The buses also carry commissioned artwork by Dharawal artist Shane Youngberry, developed with the Gujaga Foundation, Sydney Airport’s First Nations cultural partner.
The artwork is called Gamay, the Dharawal name for Botany Bay. Its imagery includes sea creatures with cultural significance, including the girawaa, or stingray, and dhanj, or fish, and tells a story about pathways, connection and community.
Why it matters locally
Ground transport is a major part of daily movement through the Mascot airport precinct. The buses will be used for passenger and staff movements across both landside and airside operations, so the change will be visible to travellers as well as people working at the airport.
The fleet will be introduced progressively rather than all at once as Sydney Airport continues replacing its older diesel vehicles.