Tourism Australia projects international capacity to Australia to grow 5.6% in 2017/18

Tourism Australia reported (Nov-2017) the "significant growth" in aviation capacity into Australia in recent years is in line with expectations to achieve the country's 'Tourism 2020' goal. Tourism Research Australia forecasts inbound air capacity to grow 5.6% year-on-year in 2017/18 and 5.5% in 2018/19, following "improved financial performance of major international airlines, buoyant passenger demand and lower oil prices". Over the longer term, average annual growth of 5% is projected between 2017/18 and 2026/27. Tourism Australia will continue to focus on strengthening partnerships with more than 20 airlines to expand existing services and secure new routes. The body states airline partners are "key to strengthening our consumer and distribution channels and to achieving travel bookings to Australia". [more - original PR]