Australian government: Asia is 'key to Australia’s tourism success'

Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Steven Ciobo MP stated (18-Mar-2018) international air capacity into Australia has "kept pace" with the increase in international arrivals, which "clearly highlights the connection between aviation development and the growth of Australia's tourism industry". Mr Ciobo noted connectivity to Asia is "key to Australia's tourism success", as the region represents 49% of all international visitors to Australia and 56% of overnight visitor spend. According to Mr Ciobo, Australian inbound seats increased 5% year-on-year in 2017, to 26 million, there are currently a record number of flights into Australia from 65 airlines. Almost 100,000 aircraft flew into Australia in 2017. [more - original PR]