As the Christmas holiday period swings into gear, a new international carrier has taken off from Melbourne Airport for the first time.
Juneyao Airlines’ new Melbourne-Shanghai service takes seat capacity on Chinese routes above 2019 levels and international capacity to more than 13 per cent above pre-pandemic levels for the Victorian hub.
Operated by the airline’s B787-9 Dreamliner, the three-times-weekly service will increase to a daily service in January 2025.
Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said the airline’s arrival offers passengers more options to a key market.
“Today’s inaugural flight caps an incredible year of growth for our international services and sets us up for an even bigger 2025,” she stated.
“We are proud to welcome Juneyao Airlines and thank them for choosing to partner with Melbourne Airport as we work to provide more choice for Victorians.
“This service will benefit both passengers and producers by providing more competition into China.”
“Prior to the pandemic, the tourism spend generated by the Chinese market outstripped the next ten markets combined, so any additional capacity is incredibly important for Victoria.
“Juneyao Airlines boasts a premium product and provides passengers access to a vast network of connections across mainland China but also onwards to Asia and Europe.
“We expect this summer will be the busiest international summer in Melbourne Airport’s history with increased seat capacity allowing more Victorians to travel overseas and more tourists to explore our beautiful state.”
Juneyao Airlines, one of China’s largest privately owned carriers, made its Australian debut last week at Sydney Airport.
Dazzling debut
Melbourne Airport also recently welcomed the debut flight of Malaysia Airlines’ new A330neo, the latest member of the MH fleet. Among its features are a new interior featuring 28 business class suites with privacy doors.
