The FINANCIAL — Another exciting milestone was reached on July 12 in the fast-growing Chinese visitor market with Beijing Capital Airlines announcing Melbourne as its first Australian destination with services from Shenyang via Qingdao commencing in September.
Part of the HNA Group, who also invest in Virgin Australia, this fresh, energetic airline will operate services to Melbourne three times a week, connecting Victoria with the Chinese cities of Shenyang and Qingdao, according to Melbourne Airport.
Beijing Capital Airlines, which launched international services in 2014, will provide Victorians with the opportunity to visit the seaside city of Qingdao, famous for its beaches and world renowned Tsingtao Beer. The largest city in North East China, Shenyang houses an imperial palace dating back to the Qing Dynasty.
Melbourne Airport has seen rapid and sustained growth in Chinese routes with Beijing Capital Airlines closely following the commencement of Xiamen Air services earlier this month.
As the largest source of international visitors to Victoria, Melbourne Airport saw 798,000 arrivals from China in the 12 months ending April 2016.
Quotes attributable to Lyell Strambi, CEO of Melbourne Airport
“We are thrilled to welcome Beijing Capital Airlines to Australia and Melbourne.”
“We’ve seen consistent growth in the numbers of Chinese passengers arriving in Melbourne to visit Victoria and Beijing Capital Airlines will provide opportunity for more visitors from China.”
“China has been a significant force in Melbourne’s international passenger growth, and our work with our Chinese airline customers is coming to fruition with more airlines offering services to Melbourne from China.”
“This is also testament to everything Victoria has to offer travellers – from arts and culture, to sport and dining – the state offers a diverse visitor experience.”
“In addition to expanding Chinese destinations for Victorian travellers, these new services will also provide more opportunities for tourism, business and education relationships between Victoria and China.”
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