The Gold Coast is stepping up its campaign to attract new international airline services as it seeks to strengthen its position in the Australian business events market.
Destination marketing organisation Experience Gold Coast is working with aviation and tourism partners to encourage airlines to establish direct services from key international markets including North America, Europe, India and Asia.
The strategy follows a record year for the city’s visitor economy, which generated almost $9 billion in visitor expenditure. While leisure tourism remains the Gold Coast’s largest market, industry leaders believe improved international access is essential if the city is to secure more conferences, incentives and corporate meetings.
The return of international services has already begun, with Qantas resuming direct flights between Auckland and the Gold Coast earlier this year. The route has restored an important connection with New Zealand and provides additional capacity for business travellers and conference delegates.
Gold Coast Airport Chief Executive Amelia Evans said expanding the airport’s international network remains a priority as demand for travel continues to recover.
The destination has also secured several major business events in recent years, including the 2028 SITE Global Conference, which will bring incentive travel professionals from around the world to Australia.