China Southern Airlines is re-launching direct flights between Perth and Guangzhou, China, starting 28 November 2024.
This marks a significant development for the region’s economic landscape. The service restoration is viewed as positive news for Western Australia’s state tourism industry.
China has a reputation as a historically strong tourism market for the western Australian state.
Boost for Tourism and Trade
Perth Airport’s Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer, Kate Holsgrove, expressed her optimism about the positive impact these flights will have.
“The Chinese visitor market is crucial for our tourism sector, but also benefits business, education, and exports,” she stated.
“China is already a major player for Western Australia, ranking as its fourth-largest tourist market. In 2023 alone, 54,000 visitors from China contributed $230 million to the economy. The return of direct flights is expected to significantly increase these numbers.”
This initiative is the culmination of collaborative efforts between China Southern Airlines, Tourism WA, and the Western Australian government.
Perth Airport is looking forward to further strengthening this partnership.
Perth Airport Connectivity
The new service will offer three flights per week, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. This translates to 86,000 additional seats and 5,000 tonnes of cargo capacity for the Perth market.
The direct link between China and Perth is expected to benefit various sectors. “This is fantastic news for fresh produce exports, business travel, and leisure tourism,” said Holsgrove.
This direct connection will solidify Western Australia’s position as Australia’s Western Gateway. Moreover, it will also energize related industries like agriculture and business exchanges.
Strengthening Ties and Community Connections
WA Deputy Premier and Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti highlighted the importance of this development for the local Chinese community.
“China is a historically strong market for Western Australia, and this direct route is sure to significantly boost visitor numbers and spending,” she said.
“This direct connection goes beyond tourism; it will revitalize related sectors and solidify our state as Australia’s Western Gateway.”
“Additionally, it’s a major win for our local Chinese community, fostering stronger connections with family and friends back home.”
China Southern Airlines’ History
China Southern Airlines has a long history of connecting Western Australia with China. Jason Sun, the airline’s Regional General Manager for Australia & New Zealand, elaborated on this commitment.
He mentioned the launch of the “Canton Route” strategy in 2009 and the inauguration of the Perth-Guangzhou route in 2011.
China Southern remains dedicated to the recovery of the China-Australia market and is excited to resume flights to Perth post-pandemic.
Conclusion
The airline aims to strengthen its cooperation with the Western Australian government and Perth Airport through this resumed service.
They plan to continuously enhance the “Canton Route” and bring more passengers from around the world, facilitating stronger China-Australia exchanges.
The flights will operate on a comfortable Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, arriving in Perth on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 10:10 pm and departing at 11:55 pm.
This direct connection between Western Australia and China is a promising development for the region’s economic growth and cultural exchange.
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