Thursday, August 22, 2024 Chinese New Year, one of the most significant and widely celebrated events in the Chinese calendar, is set to bring a renewed wave of enthusiasm to Western Australia as China Eastern Airlines announces the return of its special non-stop flights between Shanghai and Perth. This strategic move, supported by the Cook Government in partnership with Perth Airport, marks a significant milestone in reconnecting Western Australia with China, reinforcing the importance of the Chinese market to the state’s tourism industry. Starting early next year, these special three-week flights will coincide with the Chinese New Year, a period that sees millions of people around the world traveling to celebrate with family, participate in cultural festivities, and embark on memorable holidays.
The revival of this direct air link is not only a boon for travelers seeking a seamless journey between Shanghai and Perth but also a major economic boost for Western Australia, which has long been a favored destination for Chinese tourists. A Strategic Partnership for Tourism Growth The Cook Government’s partnership with Perth Airport to support China Eastern Airlines in reinstating these flights is a clear demonstration of the state’s commitment to revitalizing its tourism industry. The collaboration underscores the importance of direct air links in fostering international tourism, which is vital for Western Australia’s economic recovery and growth post-pandemic.
With the announcement of ten additional inbound flights scheduled between January 24 and February 14, 2025, the special service will offer three flights per week, adding a total of 2,320 seats for travelers eager to experience Western Australia during the festive season. These additional flights are expected to attract thousands of Chinese visitors, who will contribute significantly to the local economy by spending on accommodation, dining, shopping, and tourist attractions across the state. Chinese visitors have consistently been among the highest spenders in Western Australia, making China the state’s most lucrative international market.
In the year ending March 2024, 66,000 Chinese visitors spent a staggering $303 million in Western Australia. This impressive figure highlights the critical role that the Chinese market plays in the state’s tourism sector, and the return of non-stop flights from Shanghai is poised to further enhance this contribution. Expanding International Connectivity The reinstatement of China Eastern Airlines’ Shanghai-Perth service is part of a broader effort by the Cook Government to expand international connectivity to Western Australia.
Since the reopening of borders, the government has successfully secured or re-launched non-stop flights to 20 international destinations, a testament to its proactive approach to boosting tourism and ensuring that Western Australia remains a key destination for travelers from around the world. In addition to the Shanghai-Perth route, China Southern Airlines is also set to re-launch its non-stop service between Guangzhou and Perth in November 2024. This move will add an impressive 41,000 inbound seats to Western Australia annually, further solidifying the state’s position as a premier destination for Chinese tourists.
The combined efforts of China Eastern and China Southern Airlines will significantly enhance air connectivity between China and Western Australia, providing travelers with more options and greater flexibility. These developments are not just about increasing the number of flights but also about strengthening the cultural and economic ties between China and Western Australia. The Chinese New Year flights, in particular, hold symbolic importance as they represent a bridge between the two cultures, allowing Chinese travelers to celebrate one of their most cherished holidays while exploring the unique offerings of Western Australia.
Economic Impact and Tourism Opportunities The return of direct flights between Shanghai and Perth during the Chinese New Year period is expected to have a profound economic impact on Western Australia. Tourism operators, hoteliers, retailers, and other businesses across the state are gearing up to welcome an influx of Chinese visitors who are known for their high spending power. Perth, as the gateway to Western Australia, offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to the interests of Chinese tourists.
From the pristine beaches and natural wonders to the vibrant arts and cultural scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city’s growing reputation as a destination for luxury shopping, fine dining, and unique experiences is likely to resonate well with Chinese visitors, who often seek high-quality and authentic experiences during their travels. The timing of these flights also presents an opportunity for Western Australia to showcase its unique Chinese New Year celebrations, which have become increasingly popular among both locals and visitors.
Events such as the Lunar New Year Festival in Northbridge, the dragon and lion dances, and the spectacular fireworks displays are just a few examples of how the state embraces this important cultural celebration. The influx of Chinese visitors during this period will not only enhance the vibrancy of these events but also provide a platform for cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Supporting Western Australia’s Tourism Strategy The return of non-stop flights from Shanghai to Perth aligns with Western Australia’s broader tourism strategy, which aims to attract high-value international visitors and increase the state’s share of the global tourism market.
The Cook Government has been working diligently to promote Western Australia as a world-class destination, and the re-establishment of direct air links with key markets like China is a crucial part of this strategy. In recent years, the state has made significant investments in tourism infrastructure, marketing campaigns, and partnerships with international airlines to boost visitor numbers. These efforts have been paying off, with Western Australia experiencing a steady increase in international arrivals since the reopening of borders.
The special Chinese New Year flights are expected to contribute to this positive trend, further boosting the state’s tourism industry. The Cook Government’s focus on securing direct flights is also driven by the recognition that ease of access is a key factor in attracting international visitors. Non-stop flights offer a convenient and efficient travel option, reducing the travel time and making Western Australia a more attractive destination for tourists from distant markets like China.
By enhancing connectivity, the government is positioning the state as a gateway to Australia, offering travelers a unique starting point for their Australian adventures. Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for WA Tourism As Western Australia continues to recover from the impacts of the global pandemic, the return of direct flights from China represents a significant step forward for the state’s tourism industry. The partnership between the Cook Government, Perth Airport, and China Eastern Airlines is a shining example of how collaboration between government and industry can drive economic growth and create opportunities for local businesses.
Looking ahead, the future of Western Australia’s tourism sector appears bright, with the potential for further expansion of air services and the continued growth of international visitor numbers. The Cook Government’s proactive approach to securing direct flights and promoting the state as a top destination is likely to yield long-term benefits, positioning Western Australia as a leader in the competitive global tourism market. In conclusion, the revival of China Eastern Airlines’ special non-stop flights between Shanghai and Perth for the Chinese New Year period is more than just a convenient travel option; it is a strategic move that underscores the importance of the Chinese market to Western Australia’s tourism industry.
With the support of the Cook Government and Perth Airport, this initiative is set to bring thousands of Chinese visitors to the state, contributing to the local economy and fostering cultural ties between China and Australia. As the state prepares to welcome these visitors, there is a sense of optimism and excitement about the opportunities that lie ahead for Western Australia’s tourism industry..
