Saturday, August 24, 2024 Perth Airport is set to reconnect Western Australia with mainland China as China Eastern Airlines announces the return of its non-stop service to Shanghai in early 2025. This seasonal route will operate during the Chinese New Year holiday period, offering a convenient travel option for passengers between January 24 and February 14, 2025. The planned service will feature 10 flights between Perth Airport (PER) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), aiming to meet the high demand during the festive season.
This strategic move will benefit both tourism and business sectors, providing a direct link between Western Australia and one of China’s most vibrant cities. Kate Holsgrove, Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer at Perth Airport, emphasized the importance of this route in enhancing international connectivity. “Growing direct services between China and Western Australia is a major focus for us,” Holsgrove said .
“Reintroducing this direct link will not only strengthen our relationship with China but also drive economic benefits for our state by promoting tourism and trade.” This development is a significant step in Perth Airport’s ongoing efforts to expand its international network and support Western Australia’s economic growth. “Currently 66,000 Chinese visitors come to Western Australia each year, spending approximately $303 million.
With additional flights, these numbers will undoubtedly grow and that will benefit the entire economy. “Later this year, we will also welcome back China Southern Airlines with three flights a week to Guangzhou and Cathay Pacific will increase flights to Hong Kong from six to eleven per week. More services to China will result in increased cargo capacity for key exports and further stimulate the Western Australian tourism industry.
“The Perth Airport team, in partnership with Tourism WA, continues to explore new market opportunities and is committed to delivering safe, convenient air services for the community in Western Australia,” said Ms Holsgrove. China Eastern Airlines will operate its Shanghai route using an A330-200 aircraft, which offers 232 seats per flight, totaling 4,640 seats available throughout the service period..
