Four major airlines expand Queensland services under $75 million connectivity push

Queensland's aviation network is set for a major boost, with four international carriers expanding services as part of the State Government's $75 million Connecting Queensland Fund.

The expanded routes, rolled out over the Christmas period and beyond, are a cornerstone of the Government's long-term tourism blueprint, Destination 2045, aimed at strengthening global links and driving visitor growth across the state.

Under the fund, Qantas, Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand and China Southern Airlines will increase or introduce services to Queensland, improving access to key international markets and delivering significant economic benefits to local communities.

The Government says stronger aviation links will help support a better lifestyle through a stronger economy, with increased visitor numbers flowing through to regional centres, small businesses, hospitality venues and tourism operators.

The new and expanded services include:

• China Southern Airlines increasing Brisbane-Guangzhou flights to twice daily, year-round from 30 March next year. The move will add more than 114,000 seats annually, generating an estimated $498 million in visitor spending over three years and supporting up to 1,040 direct and 630 indirect jobs.
• Qantas launching a direct Auckland-Gold Coast international service from 16 June 2026, expected to inject around $85 million into the Queensland economy and support 130 direct and 80 indirect jobs.
• Fiji Airways introducing a new Nadi-Gold Coast service three times a week, forecast to contribute more than $51 million to the state economy while supporting 100 direct and 60 indirect jobs and improving connections to North America.
• Air New Zealand expanding its Brisbane schedule for the March-October 2026 season, adding more than 35,000 extra seats compared with 2025. This includes increasing Brisbane-Christchurch services to eight flights per week and lifting Brisbane-Auckland services to up to 26 flights per week.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said each new route represented fresh opportunities for Queensland's tourism sector.

"Queensland is the home of the holiday, and these new services mean more visitors and more money flowing into local businesses," Mr Powell said.
"We committed to boosting connectivity, and we are delivering. These strategic connections are critical as we build towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and this is just the start."

Queensland Tourism Industry Council chief executive Natassia Wheeler said improved aviation access was one of the strongest drivers of visitor economy growth.

"As one of Australia's most geographically dispersed states, reliable air access is essential for regional communities, tourism operators and their workforces," Ms Wheeler said.
"The Connecting Queensland Fund is already translating into real momentum and tangible benefits for industry."

Brisbane Airport chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff said China Southern's expanded schedule would mark the airline's highest-ever frequency in Brisbane since launching services in 2010.

"Double-daily, year-round flights will significantly enhance Brisbane's connectivity and give travellers greater choice and flexibility when flying to and from China," he said.

China Southern Airlines ANZ regional general manager Jason Sun said the increased capacity reflected strong and growing demand.

"This expansion demonstrates our long-term confidence in the Queensland market and responds directly to rising demand for tourism, business, cultural exchange and family travel," Mr Sun said.

Queensland Airports Limited chief executive Amelia Evans welcomed the return of Qantas to Gold Coast Airport's international network and the arrival of Fiji Airways.

"These services strengthen the Gold Coast's position as Australia's most connected airport to New Zealand while supporting tourism, trade and regional growth," she said.

Air New Zealand general manager Australia Kathryn O'Brien said Brisbane's popularity with New Zealand travellers continued to grow.

"Brisbane's lifestyle, climate and world-class attractions are drawing more New Zealanders," Ms O'Brien said.
"By increasing capacity and adding services, we're giving travellers more choice while supporting stronger connections with Queensland."