Flying direct may be easier, but more Australians are seeing the benefits, fun and comfort of flying to Vancouver via China.
Speaking to KarryOn, China Southern Airlines’ John Edward said over the last few years, the number of Australian travellers flying to the Canadian city on the Canton Route has grown.
Although he admitted that the direct route is preferred for those solely travelling to Canada, the Regional Commercial Director for Australia and New Zealand is also finding that China Southern flights are attracting different Australian demographics – such as backpackers.
Business travellers continue to be the largest demographic for the airline from Australia, with John saying Guangzhou (China Southern’s base) acts as a stopover for a number of working Australians.
However, more backpackers are using the route than ever before as an extension to their holiday.
“We have a different demographic, those being business travellers and backpackers who don’t mind having a bit of a break before taking a 13 hour flight to Vancouver.”
John Edward, China Southern Regional Commercial Director for Australia & New Zealand
But they are not the only motives Australians have for choosing the route. Here are six more reasons your clients will want to fly China Southern via China on their next trip to Vancouver:
Fill up that luggage
No need to leave those extra jumpers behind because China Southern Airlines lets Economy passengers travel with two 23kg suitcases.
But that’s not all, loyalty members can bring on a third bag for free.
Oh but wait, there’s more! Golf bags are free.
Dim sum anyone?
China Southern takes traditional oriental dishes to the skies.
The Eastern menu offers guests the chance to enjoy Cantonese cuisine such as the popular Cantonese soup.
For those who prefer something more familiar, the airline also offers Western dishes including a rack of lamb or chicken rolls.
Travel visa free to China
Australians flying with China Southern to Vancouver are allowed to stay in Guangzhou for 72 hours visa free.
Australia was one of 45 countries granted the visa-free status in 2013.
That means plenty of time to fit in shopping and enjoy local food.
Plus there’s free tours
During the free 72-hour visa free stopover, passengers can also enjoy a free one-day city tour.
It is provided by the airport and available to Aussie travellers.
Aussies everywhere
Aussies aren’t just flying with the airline, they’re employed by it too.
According to the MD of Australia and New Zealand, Louis Lu, most of the pilots flying between Australia and Guangzhou are Australian.
Lu says this allows the airline to offer clear communication with its passengers.
Oh so many flights
The airline currently has around 38 flights between Australia and New Zealand.
This is expect to grow in the coming months as the peak period approaches.
Currently, China Southern flies double daily from Sydney; double daily from Melbourne; daily from Brisbane; and three times weekly from Perth.
