
Bankstown Airport, also known as Sydney Metropolitan Airport, is an airport and business park located in Canterbury-Bankstown, Australia. It was established in 1940 during World War II as a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) facility and strategic air base to support the war effort. Today, the airport operates 24 hours a day, catering to various aviation services and businesses, including flying schools, charter and private flights, freight, aircraft maintenance, and emergency services. With three parallel runways, a small passenger terminal, and a large business park, Bankstown Airport plays a significant role in the local economy and aviation industry in the Sydney region.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | City of Canterbury-Bankstown, Australia |
| Distance from Sydney CBD | 26 km (16 mi) |
| Distance from Sydney Airport | 17 km (11 mi) west of Sydney Airport |
| Area | 313 ha (770 acres) |
| Runways | 3 parallel runways |
| Taxiway | Extensive |
| Business Park | Over 160-170 businesses |
| Passenger Terminal | Small, capable of handling 200 passengers per hour |
| Parking | Available at no charge |
| Transport | Taxi, local bus service to Bankstown railway station |
| Air Traffic Control Tower | Listed on the Commonwealth Heritage List |
| Operational Hours | 24 hours a day with limitations on night circuit training |
| Historical Significance | Established in 1940 during World War II as a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) facility and used by the United States Army Air Forces |
| Events | Host to events such as the annual Sydney Aviation Model Show |
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What You'll Learn

Home to over 160 businesses
Sydney Bankstown Airport, located in the City of Canterbury-Bankstown, is home to a large business park with over 160 businesses. The airport's business park spans 313 hectares of land and includes several apron areas and a small passenger terminal.
The airport caters to a variety of businesses, including fixed-wing and helicopter flying schools, charter and private business flights, freight services, recreational flights, aircraft maintenance businesses, and emergency services. Additionally, the airport has a 24-hour operation, making it convenient for businesses that require flexible hours.
The history of Bankstown Airport is closely tied to World War II. During the war, it served as a key strategic air base for the United States Army Air Forces and played a crucial role in supporting the war effort. After the war, the airport continued to develop and became a hub for aviation-related businesses.
Today, the airport's business park is a thriving centre for various industries. The businesses located at the airport benefit from its convenient location, with easy access to major residential areas and transport routes. The airport's proximity to Sydney's central business district, approximately 26 kilometres away, makes it an attractive option for companies looking to be close to the city while also enjoying the advantages of being in a large business park.
The businesses at Bankstown Airport have access to a range of facilities and services, including parking and transport options. The airport's master plan, approved in 2005, outlines the airport's operations and strategies, ensuring a well-organised and efficient environment for the businesses located there.
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Used for filming
Sydney Bankstown Airport, located in the City of Canterbury-Bankstown, is also known for its use as a filming location. One of the hangars at Bankstown Airport was used for filming Top Gear Australia. However, none of the track sections were filmed at the airport due to it being too busy. Instead, these were predominantly filmed at the quieter Camden Airport.
The airport's unique features, such as its three parallel runways, extensive taxiways, and large business park, may make it an attractive filming location for productions requiring an aviation backdrop or a spacious area for filming. The airport's proximity to Sydney's central business district, approximately 26 kilometres away, could also be a factor in its selection as a filming location, providing easy access to other filming locations or production facilities in the city.
The airport's history and architecture may also lend themselves to filming purposes. During World War II, the airport served as a key strategic airbase for the United States Army Air Forces and played a crucial role in supporting the war effort. The presence of historical sites, such as the Bankstown Bunker, a disused RAAF operations facility, could make it a desirable filming location for historical productions or those seeking unique architectural backdrops.
Bankstown Airport's status as a busy aviation hub, with over 160 businesses, fixed-wing and helicopter flying schools, and various aviation services, means that it is a vibrant and active location. This lively atmosphere could be advantageous for filming projects seeking to capture the essence of an operational airport or showcase the diverse activities and businesses associated with aviation.
In addition to its functional aspects, Bankstown Airport also hosts a range of events throughout the year, such as the annual Sydney Aviation Model Show. These events could provide unique filming opportunities, showcasing the airport's role in promoting aviation culture and community engagement. The airport's ability to accommodate events and its overall versatility may be appealing to filmmakers looking for a dynamic and multi-faceted location.
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Established as a strategic air base during World War II
The Sydney Metropolitan Airport, commonly known as Bankstown Airport, was established in 1940. It is located in the City of Canterbury-Bankstown, approximately 26 km (16 mi) from the Sydney central business district (CBD) and 17 km (11 mi) west of Sydney Airport. The airport covers an area of 313 hectares (770 acres) and features three parallel runways, several apron areas, a small passenger terminal, and a business park with over 160 businesses.
During World War II, Bankstown Airport played a crucial role as a strategic air base. The Department of Civil Aviation acquired 630 acres (2.5 km2) of land for the development of a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) facility. The urgency of the war effort prompted immediate construction, even before the land was officially transferred to the government. On December 2, 1940, the RAAF established its headquarters at Bankstown, and the airport became a vital hub for military operations.
In 1942, the airport's strategic importance grew further when it was utilised by the United States Army Air Forces. It became home to the US 35th Fighter Squadron and the 41st Pursuit Squadron of the United States Air Force, who occupied the airport until 1944. During this period, the airport played a key role in supporting the war effort, providing a base for aircraft operations and contributing to the defence of the region.
The establishment of Bankstown Airport as a strategic air base during World War II had a significant impact on the surrounding area. It spurred the industrial development of Bankstown, transforming it from a relatively quiet region to a bustling centre of activity. The presence of the airport and its associated facilities attracted businesses and industries, particularly those related to aviation and defence.
Today, Bankstown Airport continues to be a vital aviation hub, serving various purposes. It caters to charter and private business flights, freight operations, recreational flights, aircraft maintenance businesses, private aircraft, and emergency services. The airport operates 24 hours a day, with restrictions on night circuit training, and its air traffic control tower is recognised on the Commonwealth Heritage List.
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Has a small passenger terminal
Sydney Bankstown Airport, located in the City of Canterbury-Bankstown, is approximately 16 miles from the Sydney central business district (CBD) and 11 miles west of Sydney Airport. The airport is constructed on 313 hectares of land and has three parallel runways, several apron areas, and a small passenger terminal. The small passenger terminal at Bankstown Airport is capable of handling up to 200 passengers per hour. The terminal hosts various events throughout the year, such as the annual Sydney Aviation Model Show.
The airport is a busy hub, home to numerous fixed-wing and helicopter flying schools, as well as businesses offering charter and private business flights, freight services, recreational flights, aircraft maintenance, and emergency services. It also caters to private aircraft and aeromedical services. The airport operates 24 hours a day, with some limitations placed on night circuit training.
The airport has a dedicated air traffic control tower, listed on the Commonwealth Heritage List, and uses Class D airspace procedures. The main airport entrance is serviced by a local bus service connecting to the Bankstown railway station, providing convenient access for passengers.
Bankstown Airport also has a large business park, accommodating more than 160 businesses, with some sources citing over 170. The airport owner, Aeria Management Group, has plans for further development, including the construction of warehousing and additional hardstand areas for parking or storage.
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Hosts events such as the Sydney Aviation Model Show
Bankstown Airport is a busy hub for aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike, hosting various events throughout the year that celebrate the rich history of flight. One such event is the Sydney Aviation Model Show, an annual gathering that attracts enthusiasts from across the region and beyond.
The Sydney Aviation Model Show is a highlight on the calendar for those passionate about aviation and modelling. The event brings together hobbyists, collectors, and experts to showcase their intricate creations and share their knowledge. The show features a diverse range of model aircraft, from vintage planes to modern-day replicas, each meticulously crafted and presented.
The event is a platform for modellers to display their artistry and attention to detail. Participants proudly exhibit their models, ranging from small-scale desktop replicas to large, intricate models with impressive wingspans. The show encourages creativity, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the art of aviation modelling.
It is not just the models that take centre stage, but also the talented artisans behind them. The event fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among modellers, providing an opportunity to connect, exchange techniques, and inspire one another. The show also attracts aviation enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship and the intricate details that go into creating these miniature aircraft. Aviation buffs and movie fans alike are drawn to the event, providing a unique blend of interests and passions.
The Sydney Aviation Model Show is a testament to the enduring fascination with aviation and serves as a unique platform to engage and inspire the next generation of aviators and modellers. By hosting such events, Bankstown Airport continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing aviation culture and community.
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Frequently asked questions
Bankstown Airport is an airport and business park located in the City of Canterbury-Bankstown, Australia. It is home to numerous fixed-wing and helicopter flying schools and caters to charter and private business flights, freight, recreational flights, aircraft maintenance businesses, and emergency services.
The plan to build an airport at Bankstown was initially put on hold until its establishment in 1940, after the commencement of World War II. During the war, it was used by the United States Army Air Forces and became a key strategic air base to support the war effort.
Bankstown Airport is home to a business park with over 160 businesses, including aircraft maintenance companies. The airport also has its own air traffic control tower, a small passenger terminal, and several apron areas.
Bankstown Airport is constructed on 313 hectares (770 acres) of land and has three parallel runways.
The Australian Aviation Museum was located at Bankstown Airport when it opened in February 1994 and remained there until 2016. Additionally, one of the hangars at the airport was used for filming Top Gear Australia.



































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