Spread the love

Post Views: 30

China Eastern Airlines is set to breathe life into Queensland’s tourism sector by announcing direct, non-stop flights between the bustling metropolis of Shanghai and Brisbane, commencing 29th October.

This significant move by China’s second-largest airline promises three weekly flights, intensifying daily flights during the peak travel season from 8th December 2023. The service will be facilitated by the Airbus A330-200, with a 232-passenger capacity.

Gert-Jan de Graaff, CEO of Brisbane Airport Corporation, voiced his enthusiasm, “This marks a pivotal moment in Queensland’s Chinese tourism revival. Re-introducing Shanghai, China’s premier city and commercial nerve center, into Brisbane’s destination portfolio is monumental for both business and leisure endeavors.”

In a season where global travel is steadily regaining momentum, China Eastern’s decision sets the stage for China to potentially reclaim its title as Queensland’s primary source of inbound tourists by 2024. Such developments spell promising news for regional hubs like Gold Coast, Brisbane, and North Queensland.

Financial forecasts are already buzzing with the potential economic uplift this move promises. Over the next three years, these flights will infuse approximately $314 million into Queensland’s tourism coffers and secure 1,270 jobs.

Echoing the enthusiasm, Mr. Jim Young, China Eastern Airlines Oceania General Manager, stated, “Returning to Brisbane and providing travellers direct access to Shanghai underscores our dedication to elevating Shanghai’s global position as a primary hub for business and leisure.”

Emphasizing the collaboration at the heart of this initiative, he added, “The alignment between us, the Queensland Government, and Brisbane Airport illustrates a shared vision for the future, establishing 2023 as a pivotal year.”

The momentum from this announcement is not singular. It’s the 26th international connection greenlit by the Attracting Aviation Investment Fund – an alliance between the Queensland Government and multiple airports. Stirling Hinchliffe, Queensland’s Tourism Minister, remarked, “This step is pivotal for the international rejuvenation of Queensland’s world-class tourism sector. Our iconic locations, from the Torres Strait to our picturesque beaches, are set to witness a surge of Chinese travelers.”

Highlighting Queensland’s proactive marketing initiatives, Hinchliffe mentioned, “Our message in China is clear: Queensland is ready and open for business. The robust holiday bookings from Guangzhou and Shanghai are a testament to our efforts.”

Beyond passenger travel, the resumption of direct air cargo routes to China is a boon for Queensland exporters. Before the pandemic, 11,000 tonnes of goods flew from Brisbane to China annually. Gert-Jan de Graaff highlighted the economic implications, “This move is transformative for Queensland exporters. Our primary producers can soon cater directly to 1.4 billion customers across China.”

Queensland’s prime exports to China, including seafood, chilled beef, and beauty products, are poised to benefit immensely. Moreover, China Eastern’s partnership with Qantas through a code-share agreement further bolsters the service’s potential.

Rounding off the anticipation, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stated, “Brisbane’s reputation as a globally recognized destination is only growing. This partnership ensures that an entire generation of Chinese tourists will experience our unmatched offerings, from retail to entertainment.”

With a potent combination of international collaboration, robust economic forecasts, and untapped tourism potential, the Shanghai-Brisbane direct flights by China Eastern Airlines are set to redefine Queensland’s global tourism narrative.