Australia is set to enhance its global connectivity with the introduction of ten new and returning international passenger routes in December 2023. Many of these routes have already commenced, marking a significant expansion in travel options for Australian cities. Notably, Jetstar has launched the first-ever nonstop service from Australia to Cebu, while Virgin Australia has initiated flights from Melbourne to Doha, its fourth route to the Middle East.
New Routes and Airlines
The expansion includes services from six Australian cities, with a focus on increasing international links for smaller locations such as Adelaide and Darwin. Three of the ten new routes are entirely new markets, indicating a growing interest in expanding travel options. The addition of U.S. carriers—American, Delta, and United—further underscores the significance of this expansion. American Airlines is now doubling its routes to Brisbane, and Delta has commenced service to Melbourne, enhancing competitive travel choices.
One of the most significant developments is United Airlines’ new service from San Francisco to Adelaide, set to launch on December 11. This flight will arrive in South Australia at 09:30 on December 13, marking the first time Adelaide will have direct flights from North America. United will now serve four cities in Australia: Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.
The following routes are included in the December operations:
– American Airlines: Los Angeles to Brisbane, three weekly flights on the Boeing 787-9, a new route.
– Delta Airlines: Los Angeles to Melbourne, three weekly flights on the Airbus A350-900, supplementing existing services.
– China Southern Airlines: Guangzhou to Darwin, three weekly flights on the Boeing 737 MAX 8, a brand-new market for the airline.
– Jetstar: Brisbane to Cebu, three weekly flights on the Airbus A321LR, a new route.
– Qantas: Perth to Johannesburg, three weekly flights on the Airbus A330-200, resuming service after a previous suspension.
Strategic Implications for Travelers
The timing of these new routes coincides with the summer travel season in Australia and the Christmas holiday period, typically characterized by increased demand and higher airfares. The expansion is also expected to facilitate greater connectivity for passengers traveling between Australia and key international destinations.
For instance, on December 7, Qantas relaunched two international routes from Perth, including a service to Auckland. The airline’s operations are strategically timed to allow smooth connections for passengers traveling from Perth to New Zealand’s largest city. Data indicates that the market had approximately 27,000 passengers in the year leading up to September, showcasing significant demand.
The potential for growth in the market from mainland China to Darwin is also noteworthy. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, around 36,000 round-trip passengers traveled this route in 2019, primarily facilitated by Donghai Airlines. With China Southern commencing direct flights from Guangzhou, there is optimism for a resurgence in travel between these two cities.
China Southern’s new service, covering 2,376 nautical miles each way, is the airline’s second-longest narrowbody-operated nonstop route by distance, reflecting its commitment to re-establishing connections to Australia.
With these new routes, Australia is not only increasing its international presence but also enhancing travel options for both business and leisure travelers. The expansion exemplifies the country’s recovery and growth in the aviation sector, paving the way for a more interconnected global travel landscape.
