Faster Arrivals, Smoother Transfers: What Sydney Airport’s SmartGate Upgrade Means for Business Travellers
Sydney Airport has just rolled out eight new SmartGate kiosks at the T1 International Terminal — and if you’re a frequent flyer or responsible for meeting VIPs at the gate, this is excellent news.
For international business travellers, quicker exit times mean less time in queues and more time focused on their objectives. Whether you’re in town for a board meeting, site visit, or investor briefing, a seamless arrival sets the right tone. Thanks to SmartGate technology, immigration clearance times have dropped by 10% in early 2025, with 90% of passengers clearing within 36 minutes.
Even better? This upgrade has real benefits for the drivers and concierge teams behind the scenes, too. If you’re booking premium airport transfers or chauffeur services, these reduced processing times mean greater reliability and more precise scheduling. Less waiting means less stress and more polished service delivery.
A Big Win for Corporate Ground Transport
For professionals who rely on high-end corporate travel solutions, timing and presentation are everything. These updates at Sydney Airport allow for more accurate transfer coordination, which is key when you’re aiming to impress corporate clients with ground transport. Drivers are more likely to greet passengers just as they clear immigration, without unnecessary delays, creating a smoother, more impressive experience.
It’s also good news for meeting planners, EA/PAs, and executive teams who book private drivers or chauffeured cars for inbound guests — especially when every minute counts.
What to Know About Airport Transfers in Sydney in 2025
Increased international arrivals, up 14% over the past 18 months, are being met with real infrastructure upgrades. Along with the SmartGate rollout, new CT scanning lanes mean faster security screening and fewer interruptions, even during peak periods. That’s a major improvement for Sydney’s standing as a global business gateway.
And it’s only going to get better. By early 2026, 32 more SmartGate kiosks will go live across the international precinct, doubling current capacity. With fewer bottlenecks, airport transfers will become even more efficient — a bonus for both passengers and professional drivers navigating tight schedules.
To learn more about these upgrades, visit the Sydney Airport newsroom.
So whether you’re arriving from Singapore, San Francisco or Shanghai, and need to get to the CBD fast, the best way to get from Sydney Airport to the CBD is now even smoother.
In short: this isn’t just a win for tech upgrades — it’s a win for the corporate ground transport ecosystem that keeps Sydney moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I ensure my executive is met on time if their flight arrives early or is delayed?
A: Our Cars on Demand chauffeurs monitor all international flight arrivals using live data from Sydney Airport. Your executive will be met promptly after clearing immigration, regardless of early or delayed arrivals.
Q: Can I manage several executives through a single login?
A: Yes, of course. Our online corporate portal is built for executive assistants and travel coordinators, making it easy to book, edit, and monitor multiple profiles from one secure account.
Q: Can I add more than one credit card to an executive’s profile?
A: Yes, you can store up to two credit cards per executive profile, making it easy to split personal and corporate billing.
Q: Do you offer hourly hire for executive spouses and families?
A: Yes, we provide flexible hourly hire for accompanying family members, spouses or VIP guests, with professional chauffeurs and premium vehicles.
Q: Do you offer day tours?
A: Absolutely. From Blue Mountains excursions to Hunter Valley winery experiences, we can tailor chauffeured day tours to suit your itinerary.
Q: Can I book last minute if my usual provider lets me down?
A: Yes. We specialise in last-minute corporate bookings and airport transfers, even during peak demand. Simply use our portal or call our 24/7 support team.
Q: Can I make last-minute changes to an existing booking?
A: Yes. You can edit or cancel bookings online with ease. Our flexible policy is designed for busy executives with changing schedules.
Q: What kind of vehicles are available for airport transfers?
A: We offer a premium fleet including European sedans, SUVs, luxury people movers, and executive vans — ideal for individuals or groups.
Q: Can I or my executive track the chauffeur without an app?
A: Yes. Once the trip is confirmed, you’ll receive an SMS with a live tracking link — no app downloads needed.
Q: Do you have 24/7 customer support?
A: Yes. Our local Australian support team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to assist you with any changes, bookings, or questions.
Q: What sets Cars on Demand apart from rideshares or taxis?
A: Our service is built for corporate reliability — no surge pricing, no waiting. Every transfer includes professional etiquette, early arrivals, and personalised service that reflects well on your organisation.