Hong Kong, Australia, China, And India Reap Major Benefits As Cathay Pacific Resumes Direct Flights To Cairns, Fueling Unprecedented Tourism Growth And Global Connectivity

Hong Kong, Australia, China, and India are to be among the beneficiaries of the strong comeback by Cathay Pacific direct flights to Cairns, greatly improving international connectivity and sparking record tourism growth. Beginning in December, the seasonal service opens doors to seamless travel between these major international markets and Tropical North Queensland, ensuring an influx of holidaymakers over the peak season. The comeback by this high-demand route highlights the heightening economic and tourism affinities, as Cathay Pacific direct flights lead to boosted international travel, trade, and cultural exchange. Cathay Pacific is set to operate three direct flights per week between Hong Kong and Cairns from December 9 to February 28, aligning with the peak Christmas holidays and Lunar New Year period. This seasonal service, which returns for the second consecutive year, builds on the success of its inaugural offering and is expected to bring thousands of international tourists to Tropical North Queensland. Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker expressed enthusiasm about the return of the Hong Kong-based carrier, calling it a “major coup” for the region. The revived partnership reflects the growing strength of Cairns’ relationship with Cathay Pacific and the airline’s ongoing commitment to the area. The direct flights will offer convenient connections for travelers, enhancing Cairns’ accessibility to key global markets. The service will operate on Cathay Pacific’s A330 aircraft, providing over 20,000 seats throughout the season. The airline’s global network enables seamless connections to major destinations, including mainland China, the United Kingdom, Europe, and India. These routes are expected to significantly boost tourism numbers, especially as many international visitors are drawn to the region to celebrate the Lunar New Year and Christmas holidays. Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen welcomed the return of Cathay Pacific, noting the importance of the carrier’s role in boosting tourism during such a critical period. With the return service, Tropical North Queensland anticipates a surge in arrivals, including visitors from the key Chinese mainland market, which has long been a strong source of tourism for the region.