For those looking to purchase a property in Sydney, a useful web link for the main Sydney flight paths on Google Maps is here.
Purchasing Property and Sydney Flight Paths
When buying a home or investment property in Sydney, it’s important to consider whether the property is affected by aircraft noise due to its proximity to a flight path. Aircraft noise can impact lifestyle and property value—so it’s something you’ll want to assess carefully.
Sydney’s Airports
Sydney Airport is located in Mascot, around 8km south of the CBD. It’s the city’s primary hub for both domestic and international flights. Smaller airports also operate at Bankstown and Camden, although they service limited traffic and are generally not of concern when it comes to regular commercial flight paths.
A new airport—Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport—is currently under construction at Badgerys Creek in Sydney’s west. It’s set to open in 2026 and will serve as a major second airport for the city. While this new airport is expected to ease congestion at Mascot and open up greater access to Western Sydney, it will also introduce new flight paths that could affect suburbs not currently impacted by aircraft noise. Areas surrounding the airport and potentially beyond may see changes in air traffic once it opens.
Sydney flight paths for Kingsford Smith and Nancy Bird Airports.
Nancy Bird Airport is due to open in 2026.
Sydney Airport Curfew
In order to help minimise the impact of aircraft noise on nearby residents, a curfew is in operation at Sydney Airport between 11pm and 6am. While the curfew does not prevent all aircraft during this time it does restrict the types of aircraft that can operate and the number of flights allowed. All aircraft operating during the curfew are required to take off or land over Botany Bay. A limited number of international passenger jet aircraft are also permitted to land between 5.00am and 6.00am. This is permitted during the northern hemisphere summer months.
Things to Consider When Buying Under a Flight Path
If you’re looking at a property that may be affected by aircraft noise, here are some practical steps to take:
Look for noise insulation: Double-glazed windows, upgraded roofing, and other insulation measures in the property or surrounding homes may indicate that aircraft noise is a known issue. On the upside, good insulation can significantly reduce the impact.
Check the location: Determine how close the property is to existing flight paths or the airports themselves. Properties closer to takeoff and landing zones generally experience more noise.
Visit at different times: Go to the property on different days and at various times—including mornings and evenings. If possible, visit when wind directions change, as this can influence flight paths.
Talk to locals: Neighbours often have valuable insights into the noise levels and whether there are noticeable seasonal variations.
Should You Avoid Sydney Flight Path Areas?
Not necessarily. While aircraft noise is a deal-breaker for some, there are potential upsides:
- Price advantage: Properties under flight paths often come with a price discount compared to similar homes outside the affected zone. The degree of discount can vary depending on how heavily utilised the airspace is.
- Convenience: If you travel frequently for work or leisure, being close to an airport can be a big plus.
A Final Word
Sydney flight paths and aircraft noise are just one of many factors to consider when purchasing property in Sydney. Being aware of how they might impact your lifestyle or investment is key to making an informed decision—especially as new infrastructure like Western Sydney International Airport comes online and reshapes the city’s air traffic patterns.
