In a big boost to two-way tourism, China Southern Airlines has resumed direct flights between Guangzhou and Adelaide, marking its first service on the route since early 2020.
The inaugural flight landed this morning at Adelaide Airport, reconnecting South Australia with the state’s leading international tourism market.
Operating until 1 March 2025, the airline will offer three weekly return flights during the peak summer season. Discussions between Adelaide Airport, the State Government, and China Southern are ongoing to potentially extend the service beyond this date.
The route, serviced by a B787-8 Dreamliner, is expected to provide vital links not only to China but also to Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and North America – key tourism markets for the state.
China Southern, Asia’s largest carrier with a fleet of over 900 aircraft, first launched the Guangzhou-Adelaide route in 2016 before halting operations in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Flights operate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, arriving in Adelaide at 9:55 a.m. and departing for Guangzhou at 11:30 a.m.
“China is such an important market for us and welcoming back China Southern is a huge boost for the South Australian economy. It also reconnects families and stimulates vital tourism and trade between our two countries,” Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox said.
“It is an essential link in our network vision that will grow our state’s economy.”
South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison added, “We’re delighted to welcome China Southern Airlines back to South Australia, reconnecting us to what is now our top international tourism market for nights and expenditure”.
“International tourism is currently worth $1.3 billion. To further grow this, we’re bolstering our marketing efforts in China, working in partnership with China Southern Airlines, Tourism Australia and other key partners to showcase the very best of South Australia.
“To welcome back our second major international airline in less than two months is a clear sign South Australia is open for business and tourists, with these direct flights set to drive international visitation while reducing cost and travel time.”
“Adelaide and South Australia has a lot to offer Chinese travellers and we know that our premium food and wine, and nature offerings are of particular appeal.
China Southern Airlines Australia and New Zealand Regional General Manager Zhixing Sun said the carrier is “looking forward to strengthening the cooperation with various sectors in South Australia, continuing to expand the ‘Canton Route’ and bringing more travellers from China and around the world to South Australia”.
