North Queensland could soon become a much more attractive destination for immigrants and tourists, as an airport in the region gears up to receive international flights for the first time.
Australia’s Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Peter Dutton, believes that the imminent opening of Townsville airport to international flights will bring a broad range of benefits to the North Queensland economy.
“The ability for Townsville Airport to now offer ongoing international flights will boost local business and help create jobs for the long term and emphasises this Government’s commitment to develop northern Australia,” he says.
The region’s MP, Herbert Ewen Jones, is also confident that increased air traffic will boost the tourism industry, encourage business to invest and help unlock North Queensland’s potential.
“My city wants to be a major hub for the development of northern Australia,” he explained.
“To do that we must be able to receive and project through an international airport. This is the first step in the true internationalisation of our great region.”
The airport will start welcoming a thrice-weekly Jetstar service from Bali in early September, with more services expected to be announced shortly.