The number of international passengers using Brisbane Airport in June is running seven per cent ahead of the same period last year, something the airport said has been led by event-based travel demand.
The region has been host to a number of high profile events this year, which has helped drive domestic and inbound international numbers.
International markets are thriving with China, India, France and Taiwan all experiencing double-digit growth in June. Visitor numbers from Hong Kong and the Philippines have jumped by 31 per cent and 23 per cent respectively so far this month on the back of Qantas increasing Hong Kong frequencies to daily and the return of Philippine Airlines operating three flights a week to and from Manila.
“The cast and crew of the Bolshoi Ballet provided a noticeable spike in Russian nationals through the International Terminal, with their performances at QPAC sold out for the entire season drawing dance enthusiasts from all over Australia to the Brisbane only shows,” Brisbane Airport management said.
The test match between the Lions and Wallabies was a also clear factor behind surging domestic passenger flows.
“In the days leading up to the game, domestic numbers were over 10 per cent higher than the same days a year before. The biggest spike was seen the day after the game with a near 20 per cent surge of fans flying to Melbourne to follow their team on tour,” an airport spokesperson said.
“Several airlines have reported that aircraft are leaving Brisbane full as families take advantage of school holidays to take break with warm Asian and Pacific beach destinations and the ski slopes of New Zealand being especially popular this year.”