The new flight path is the first of its kind between the two states, opening up a significant new opportunity to boost visitation numbers whilst offering a convenient and appealing new transit option for travellers.
Both the Tasmanian and Western Australian economies will benefit and leverage off each other’s advantages.
Tasmania currently enjoys strong visitation from China while WA continues to pursue and secure a number of critical new international direct flights, securing Perth’s place as the western gateway to Australia.
AHA (WA) CEO and TAA National Board Member Bradley Woods, said today’s announcement will open up appealing new options for both local travellers as well as inbound international visitors.
“With direct flights between London and Perth now underway, this new route between Australia’s Western gateway of Perth and the burgeoning tourism destination of Tasmania presents a new and enticing option for our international guests,” Mr Woods said.
“Direct flights are a vital component of increased interstate visitation and today’s announcement will deliver this for both WA and Tasmania.
”Tasmanian Hospitality Association CEO and TAA (Tas) CEO Steve Old said that in addition to increasing international visitation to the island state, the new flight path will result in more domestic travellers making the journey between WA and Tasmania.
“The latest data shows Tasmania welcomed 51 800 visitors from Western Australia and this is set to increase significantly as a result of today’s announcement,” Mr Old said.
“The real winners of today’s announcement are the many thousands of hotel and hospitality businesses in Tasmania and WA who support tens of thousands of jobs and make critical contributions to both economies.
”Bookings for this new route will be able to be made from today, with the new service commencing 17 September 2018 and operating throughout the year, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday of each week.
