Queensland’s tourism and aviation sectors are set for a major lift following the roll-out of new and expanded international flight routes announced by the Crisafulli Government.
Backed by the $75 million Connecting Queensland Fund, the new services form part of the state’s long-term tourism blueprint, Destination 2045, aimed at improving global connectivity and driving economic growth across the regions.
The fund has supported expanded and new routes through Qantas, Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand and China Southern Airlines.
From March 2026, China Southern Airlines will increase Brisbane–Guangzhou flights to twice daily year-round, adding more than 114,000 seats annually.
The expansion is expected to generate close to $500 million in visitor spending over three years and support more than 1,600 direct and indirect jobs.
Qantas will return to Gold Coast Airport’s international network from June 2026 with a new Auckland service, while Fiji Airways will introduce three weekly flights from Nadi, strengthening links to the Pacific and North America.
Air New Zealand will also expand its Brisbane schedule for the 2026 peak season, adding more than 35,000 extra seats and increasing services to Auckland and Christchurch.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said improved air access was key to growing the visitor economy and supporting small businesses across Queensland.
Industry leaders welcomed the announcement, describing aviation access as one of the strongest drivers of tourism growth, particularly for regional communities.
Airport operators said the new routes reflected strong demand and growing confidence in Queensland as an international destination, with benefits expected to flow well beyond major cities as visitor numbers increase.