Face of Nation : Australia is looking to better its connection with Indian travellers with the federal tourism minister wanting an increase in direct flights.
Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham told reporters at the 25th annual World Routes conference on Sunday he pitched to increase the number of direct flights from Australia to India. “Australia is seeing double-digit growth year-on-year from India,” Mr Birmingham said.
“90 percent travel through other ports to get to Australia and that clearly shows we are under-serviced in terms of direct flights.” He said the growth of Indian tourism was driven by its growing economy, trade opportunities and stronger international education market.
“We project Indian tourism will continue to grow in the future and that’s why we’re growing the marketing and investing, for example in the T20 World Cup advertising campaign. He said the $5 million federal campaign for target ads and marketing in India would encourage more tourists to travel for the cricket next year.
Although India remains a focus at present, Mr Birmingham said South Australian authorities and Adelaide Airport aimed to drive more international connectivity. “We’d love to see the US establish direct flights into Adelaide.
The world’s leading aviation forum, held in Adelaide, was the largest conference hosted by the state. About 2000 representatives from global airlines, airports, and destination attended. Dubbed as “speed dating for airlines and airports”, Mr Birmingham said the event provided an opportunity to showcase why Australia is a world-class destination worth investing in.
“What an incredible opportunity for Adelaide and Australia to be at the front of their minds when making (scheduling) decisions where planes are going to fly around the world in years to come.”
