SilkAir boosts Singapore to Cairns service

SilkAir will increase its Singapore to Cairns service to daily from June 2019, delivering an additional $20.6 million for Queensland’s economy.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the leading Asia-Pacific regional airline, owned by Singapore Airlines, will add two additional services, secured by Tourism and Events Queensland and Cairns Airport through the Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF).

“Demand for SilkAir’s service has grown significantly since we first welcomed it to Cairns in 2015, which is great news for our tourism industry,” Ms Jones said.

“These additional flights will attract up to 10,200 visitors over two years, supporting up to 240 jobs.

“Singapore is a major international hub and this daily service will allow us to welcome more visitors not only from Singapore but also from all over Asia as well as Europe, helping us grow Queensland’s market share.

“Travellers from these important markets will be able to choose Cairns as their preferred gateway to Australia, which is home to a range of unique tourism experiences including Queensland’s natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef and the world’s oldest living rainforest.”

SilkAir Chief Executive Foo Chai Woo said the growth of the Singapore-Cairns route would bring benefits to the customer.

“The increase in flight frequency to Cairns will provide enhanced connectivity options for travellers, giving them greater choice and flexibility when planning their travel itineraries,” Mr Foo said.

“Through the Singapore hub, travellers from Cairns will be able to connect to other international destinations in the SilkAir and Singapore Airlines network, and we’re glad to be able to open up even more exciting opportunities for travellers between Cairns and Singapore.”

Cairns Airport Chief Commercial Officer Paul Mclean said the increase to daily services would open a wider range of options for international visitors to access Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.

 “The additional flights are well-timed to connect Singapore Airlines’ European flights,” he said.

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