Chinese Airlines Boost Capacity at Melbourne Airport

Melbourne Airport CEO Chris Woodruff said that Melbourne will have more capacity to China than ever before and that for the first time Victorians would be able to fly direct from Melbourne to Beijing.

"In November, China Eastern will be increasing to daily Shanghai services from four flights per week and in December Air China will be increasing its services from Beijing and Shanghai," he said.

"This follows an earlier announcement by China Southern that its flights from Guangzhou are increasing to daily services from November."

"This increased capacity is in addition to our existing airlines servicing the China market, including Cathay Pacific with its triple-daily services via its Hong Kong hub."

"Chinese passport holders increased by 20.4 per cent in the 12 months to September 2010 to reach 330,000 passengers."

"This strong performance reinforces China's position as a key driver of tourism in Victoria and confirms our view of the significant growth still to be achieved in this market."

"By working together and promoting our magnificent state and city, the Victorian government, tourism bodies and Melbourne Airport are continuing to attract record numbers of Chinese tourists."

"Melbourne Airport has continued to deploy new strategies and tools to support this growing market and ensure Chinese passengers feel welcome when they arrive in Melbourne."

"These initiatives have included providing permanent wayfinding signage, PA announcements and visitor guides in Mandarin, celebrating Chinese cultural events in our international terminal and providing operational and security screening staff with cultural awareness training."

"Melbourne Airport will be investing $1 billion over the next five years to ensure that its terminal facilities, airfield and road infrastructure can meet increasing demand."

"Chinese visitation not only benefits the aviation sector but also has major flow-on benefits for the Victorian economy."

"Our global standing as a key tourism destination and thriving business and education base, along with Melbourne Airport's operational advantages, make Melbourne a sound investment choice for airlines."

"We work hard to keep our charges low and our service levels high. We would like to thank all of our airlines for their continued support and investment in Melbourne Airport."