Last week, South East Queensland’s travel trade were treated to an exclusive industry event hosted by Air Canada, in partnership with Brisbane Airport , Linkd Tourism and destination partners from Anaheim, Colorado, New York State, and the State of Washington.The event had over 100 tourism partners gathering to celebrate the strong demand for North American travel.
Branded “Take Off to the US, eh!”, the evening offered South East Queensland-based travel professionals a unique opportunity to expand their knowledge of these popular US destinations while networking with key industry partners. Attendees embraced the sporting spirit, wearing their favourite US team jerseys for a chance to win exciting prizes.
Held at The Ballpark at Portside Wharf, the event showcased the growing partnership between Air Canada and Brisbane Airport and highlighted travel connections to the US via Vancouver (YVR).
Anthony Cicuttini, Head of Aviation Business Development at Brisbane Airport, said: “Outbound travel from Brisbane to North America has increased by 19% over the past year, with sporting events being a major draw. Whether it’s ice hockey, NFL, baseball, basketball, or even rugby league, Queenslanders are passionate about witnessing epic sports battles and they’re willing to travel for a stadium experience.”
Themed food and beverages, destination updates, and an energetic atmosphere helped transport attendees straight into the spirit of North American sports and adventure. Prize highlights included an Anaheim Ducks jersey, a Colorado backpack, apple scented candles from New York State, and two incredible travel prizes to both the State of Washington and Anaheim with an Air Canada flight ex Brisbane included.
With Air Canada’s nonstop service from Brisbane to Vancouver, Queensland travellers can easily access destinations Anaheim, New York City, Colorado, and the State of Washington.
“One of the reasons Queenslanders have embraced Vancouver International Airport as a gateway to the US is the seamless transit experience,” says Air Canada Sales Account Manager Janis McDonald.
“When our US-bound passengers touch down in Vancouver, they don’t need to recheck their bags or change terminals, and before catching their flight to one of our 50-plus destinations across the US they can also pre-clear US Customs. It’s the perfect way to enter the USA.”
The event reaffirmed the strength of the Air Canada–Brisbane Airport connection and the collaborative efforts of Linkd Tourism and its destination clients in supporting the travel trade and reigniting interest in North American holidays.
“The USA offers such incredible diversity in its tourism offerings, providing a value packed holiday that could include everything from Anaheim’s unmissable Theme Parks to Colorado’s epic National Parks. And from New York State’s culinary wonders to Washington State’s unforgettable hiking trails and waterways.”
“But no matter where your ultimate US itinerary takes you, one thing is for certain, there will always be an action-packed sports event, music gig, or theatre performance that will help create a holiday moment that travellers will never forget”, adds Michael Cassis, Strategic Director at Linkd Tourism.
