Hangzhou becomes the eighth non-stop destination in mainland China to be served from Melbourne Airport, with the additional flights taking capacity in the Chinese market back to 91 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.
Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said the extra capacity will increase opportunities for Victoria’s tourism, education and agriculture sectors.
“Hangzhou is home to around 11 million people, which is twice the size of Melbourne and is known as the tea capital of China. Mainland Chinese travellers have traditionally been one of the highest spending markets. Last year, Chinese tourists spent a total of $5.8 billion in Australia.
“It is estimated that an average daily international flight is worth around $154 million to the Victorian economy, so we know these new flights will help fill our restaurants, support our shops and give our farmers access to millions more consumers.
“China is Victoria’s largest two-way trading partner and the number one buyer of Victorian goods, with sales topping $6 billion last financial year. Today’s important new connection into mainland China will continue to help boost trade, tourism and international student growth,” she said.
“Melbourne, as the first intercontinental destination opened by Beijing Capital Airlines, marks the third intercontinental route within the same country with the launch of the Melbourne to Hangzhou route. Beijing Capital Airlines will continue to strive to support economic and cultural exchanges between China and Australia,” a Beijing Capital Airlines spokesperson said.
For more information and to view airfares, visit the Beijing Capital Airlines website.
