In a dramatic move showcasing the unprecedented demand for Australian attractions, China Southern Airlines is intensifying its Brisbane flight schedules even before its inaugural post-pandemic flight touches down. Initially set to begin services four times a week from Guangzhou starting 17th November, the airline has fast-tracked daily flights between 8th December and 25th February.

The shift is attributed to the voracious appetite of Chinese tourists for Queensland’s iconic destinations, including Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Great Barrier Reef. “The resounding demand, weeks before their first landing since the pandemic, signals a promising horizon for Queensland’s economy,” stated Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff.

Before the pandemic’s onset, China’s influence on Queensland’s tourism was unparalleled, with a staggering 497,000 visitors pouring in a whopping $1.61 billion into the local economy. The recent allure of the upcoming 2032 Games in Brisbane, perceived as a badge of honour and status for cities by Chinese visitors, also plays a significant role in the surge of interest.

This boost in flight frequency is not just a win for China Southern. It’s a testament to the efficacy of Queensland’s $200 million Attracting Aviation Investment Fund – an alliance between the Queensland Government and airports to reinvigorate the state’s visitor economy.

Stirling Hinchliffe, Tourism Minister, weighed in on the development, emphasizing the importance of these flights for the Chinese New Year travel season. “The onset of daily flights heralds a revival of Chinese visitors’ affinity for Queensland’s globally-renowned destinations and unparalleled travel experiences,” he remarked.

Furthermore, this decision dovetails with Tourism and Events Queensland’s strategic vision to generate an $11 billion visitor economy by 2032.

China Southern’s choice of aircraft, the next-generation Airbus A350, showcases a commitment to sustainability and passenger comfort. The Airbus promises 50% quieter flights with a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to earlier aircraft.

Adding another feather to Brisbane’s cap, travellers disembarking at BNE have access to an expansive domestic network, linking to 52 Australian destinations, with a dominant 30 in Queensland.

Brisbane Airport is channelling over $5 billion into infrastructure and facilities to bundle this anticipated surge, looking ahead to the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games and ensuring they remain a top-tier global travel hub for years.

Written by: Octavia Koo

===============================