Tigerair invests in Cairns

Tigerair Australia today launched its new daily return services between Brisbane and Cairns, reinforcing the Newman Government’s election promise to grow tourism as one of the four pillars of the Queensland economy. 

Assistant Minister for Tourism and the Member for Cairns Gavin King welcomed the inaugural flight into Cairns and said the budget airline’s new route would give local tourism a much needed boost, especially after Tropical Cyclone Ita. 

“The Queensland Government has worked hard to restore confidence and increase visitation to the Far North as well as attract new aviation routes and flights after the previous Labor government left tourism to languish,” Mr King said. 

“We established the $8 million Attracting Aviation Investment Fund to secure new aviation business and flights into Queensland. 

“The announcement of this new route is another welcome chapter in Tigerair’s seven-year association with Queensland. 

“The Brisbane to Cairns return services will help to deliver our goal to double annual overnight visitor expenditure in Queensland from $15 billion to $30 billion by 2020. 

“It is also great news for the local economy with around 10 new jobs to be created at Cairns Airport to facilitate the new flights.” 

Tigerair Australia CEO Rob Sharp travelled on the first flight and said Tigerair fares had been proven to stimulate air travel in Australia. 

“As with all world class Australian destinations that Tigerair flies to, we have seen unprecedented demand from the leisure and budget community wanting quick and easy access to iconic gateway destinations such as Cairns,” Mr Sharp said. 

“Today’s news also provides fantastic value fare options for Cairns residents wanting to travel to Queensland’s capital city. 

“Now that it is both more affordable and convenient to fly directly between Brisbane to Cairns, you get the best of both worlds with a great value fare and more in your pocket when you get there to enjoy the end destination,” said Mr Sharp. 

[ENDS] 15 April 2014 

Media Contact: Cairns electorate office 4051 2868