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In a spectacular turnaround, Perth has transformed from a relatively quiet and isolated city to one of Australia’s fastest-growing travel hubs, attracting international tourists and premium travellers in record numbers. This monumental shift is a testament to the city’s strategic partnerships and growing recognition on the global stage.

After being the last Australian state to reopen its borders post-pandemic, Western Australia—and Perth, in particular—has seen an unprecedented surge in international tourism and air travel traffic. As a result, Perth Airport (PER) has solidified its position as a pivotal gateway, connecting Europe and the rest of Australia through a series of new routes and expanded services. This surge in traffic has been driven by a combination of factors, including strategic collaborations with Qantas and the city’s unique appeal as a destination boasting a blend of urban sophistication, abundant sunshine, and natural beauty.

Record-Breaking Seat Capacity Growth

Perth has emerged as the strongest performer among Australian airports, with international seat capacity in 2024 skyrocketing by over 30% compared to the previous year. This growth rate is more than double the national average of 14%, positioning Perth as a standout performer in Australia’s aviation industry. Domestically, the airport is also thriving, boasting an 8% increase in available seat capacity in 2024, further cementing its status as Australia’s fastest-growing domestic and international air travel city. In contrast, traditional powerhouse hubs like Sydney and Melbourne have lagged, unable to match Perth’s pace of expansion.

Strategic Appeal for European Travelers

Perth’s status as a critical gateway for European travellers has been solidified with the recent introduction of a direct Qantas route from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Perth. This new service has been met with a surge in demand, particularly from high-spending premium travellers opting for luxury cabin classes. The influx of French visitors has significantly boosted Perth’s international tourism numbers, reinforcing the city’s potential as a high-value destination.

Beyond the new Paris route, European travellers increasingly use Perth’s strategic location on Australia’s west coast as a transfer hub to reach other Australian cities. Many of these transit passengers are now opting to extend their stay in Perth, capitalizing on the city’s unique blend of vibrant urban life, stunning coastal scenery, and proximity to renowned attractions like the Margaret River wine region and Rottnest Island.

Unmatched Growth with a Promising Outlook

The surge in seat capacity and international arrivals will continue through 2024 and beyond. Bing Han, Vice President of Sales, APAC, said at ForwardKeys, “The outlook remains positive through December 2024. We’re seeing strong demand from key markets like Japan, the USA, and South Korea, further boosting Perth’s profile as a global travel destination.” Han noted that the increase in couples, families, and small groups choosing Perth as their primary destination highlights the city’s ability to cater to diverse travel preferences.

A Blueprint for Sustainable Success

Perth’s remarkable evolution from a relatively secluded city into a thriving international gateway and premier tourist destination showcases a compelling blueprint for sustainable success. The city’s growth trajectory is built on visionary planning, robust partnerships with major airlines, and an ongoing commitment to enhancing the visitor experience.

Western Australia’s tourism board has capitalized on this momentum by launching targeted marketing campaigns at key international markets, highlighting Perth’s blend of cosmopolitan charm, outdoor adventure, and unique cultural experiences. The state’s investment in new tourism infrastructure and its strategic collaboration with airlines like Qantas have been instrumental in converting Perth from a simple stopover into a standalone destination of choice.

With a continued focus on sustainable tourism and strategic growth, Perth is poised to solidify its status as a critical player in the global travel arena—transforming its image from a remote outpost to a world-class tourism and travel hub that caters to discerning travellers from across the globe.