China Eastern returns to Queensland

China Eastern Airlines has returned to reconnect Queensland’s most valuable tourism market. “This is a landmark day for Queensland’s tourism industry. We are delighted to welcome China Eastern Airlines back to Brisbane and see Shanghai return to BNE’s destination map. Shanghai is China’s largest city and a commercial hub, making it a key city for business and leisure travel,” said Gert-Jan de Graaff, Chief Executive Officer of Brisbane Airport Corporation. In just 17 days, we’ll see the return of our second Chinese airline. Both services will increase to daily flights from December in time for the peak travel season, so we’re forecasting China will likely regain its spot as Queensland’s number one source for inbound tourism income in 2024.  This is big news for Brisbane, the Gold Coast and North Queensland.” Over the next three years, China Eastern services are predicted to deliver 181,014 inbound international seats, generating $314 million and supporting 1,270 Queensland jobs. From Shanghai, China Eastern can connect passengers to over 80 cities in all corners of China, 10 destinations in Europe, 16 in North Asia (14 in Japan, 5 in South Korea) and 4 cities in North America. The return of China Eastern’s direct flights to China will be welcomed by Queensland exporters who regain a direct path to market for all the high-quality fresh food sent to China’s quality conscious consumers. The deal is the 26th strategic international connection secured by the Attracting Aviation Investment Fund, a joint Queensland Government and airports initiative. Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said, “I want to thank Brisbane Airport Corporation team for its rock-solid partnership with the Palaszczuk Government to restore direct international airline services to Queensland. China Eastern is strategically important for reconnecting Brisbane to Shanghai’s aviation hub to drive Queensland’s international tourism recovery, exports and support for good Queensland jobs. We know Chinese visitors love Queensland great lifestyle and world-class holiday experiences and will be crucial to our plan to build an $11 billion international visitor economy by the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.” Jim Young, General Manager, China Eastern Airlines Oceania, said, “I am very pleased to officially welcome the relaunched direct service between Shanghai and Brisbane by China Eastern Airlines. The service will boost trade and tourism between Queensland and China. Shanghai and Queensland share more than three decades as Sister States. We recognise the cultural exchange and business opportunities that will flow from this service, allowing expanded trade, tourism, education and more. We wish this service every success and we look forward to welcoming you onboard.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Kay Rolland at [email protected]