Monday, June 2, 2025

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.

“Cathay Pacific’s robust global network facilitates easy connections for travelers from high-demand markets such as China, India, and Europe,” said Barker. “We anticipate thousands of additional tourists will choose to visit Tropical North Queensland this year, taking advantage of the direct flights during the festive season and the Lunar New Year celebrations.”

The Cathay Pacific flights are expected to have a significant economic impact, with the service predicted to contribute an estimated \$18 million to the local economy in visitor expenditure alone. This is in addition to the benefits provided by the seasonal service’s positive effects on local businesses, restaurants, and tourism operators. Moreover, the return flights will offer local residents more leisure options for international travel, making it easier for them to visit family abroad or take long vacations during the extended holiday period.

This renewed seasonal service will also provide crucial support for local export channels, which were strengthened in the previous year through Cathay Pacific’s extensive network. The increased frequency of direct flights from Hong Kong to Cairns not only enhances tourism prospects but also benefits businesses in the region by expanding access to international freight markets. This connectivity is vital for the local economy, especially for industries that rely on efficient and reliable global shipping channels.

Cathay Pacific’s seasonal flights to Cairns are part of a broader effort by the airline to expand its global network. The Cathay Group, which includes both the premium, full-service Cathay Pacific and the low-cost carrier HK Express, continues to grow its offerings, with plans to reach 100 destinations worldwide by the first half of 2025. This includes an expanded presence in the Chinese mainland, with 22 destinations set to be added.

The addition of the Cairns route to Cathay Pacific’s network is a strategic move to bolster its presence in the Asia-Pacific region and increase tourism options for international visitors seeking a direct connection to Northern Queensland’s tropical beauty. The A330 aircraft used for the service is equipped with a range of amenities to ensure comfort for passengers during the approximately eight-hour flight, making it an attractive option for travelers looking to visit one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations.

The introduction of Cathay Pacific’s seasonal service marks an important milestone in the ongoing development of Cairns as a key international travel hub. The city’s tourism infrastructure has been evolving rapidly in recent years, and the addition of regular, high-capacity international flights is a testament to Cairns’ growing reputation as a desirable travel destination for global visitors. By securing more direct flight routes, the region is positioning itself to become even more accessible to tourists from around the world, ultimately contributing to the long-term growth of the local economy and tourism industry.

Looking ahead, Cairns Airport and Tourism Tropical North Queensland are optimistic about the ongoing success of the Cathay Pacific partnership. With the strategic timing of the flights during the busy festive season and Lunar New Year, the region is set to see a continued influx of visitors. As a result, the renewed service is expected to further strengthen Cairns’ position as a must-visit destination for international travelers seeking tropical experiences, while also providing economic benefits and more travel options for local residents.

Hong Kong, Australia, China, and India will be more globally connected when Cathay Pacific resumes direct air services to Cairns, boosting tourism and economic growth. During the holiday season, the seasonal service will extend travel links and enhance international access to Tropical North Queensland.

In conclusion, Cathay Pacific’s seasonal flights to Cairns are an exciting development for the region, offering new opportunities for tourism, trade, and international connectivity. The service is expected to bring significant economic benefits and strengthen the region’s position on the global tourism map. With thousands of visitors anticipated to choose Cairns as their holiday destination this year, the flights are poised to play a crucial role in supporting the local economy, enhancing international connections, and boosting the vibrant tourism industry in Tropical North Queensland.