HOBART- Singapore Airlines (SQ) is actively exploring the possibility of establishing non-stop flights to Tasmania, a development that could significantly enhance travel connectivity between Singapore and the Australian island state.
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff disclosed ongoing negotiations with Singapore Airlines or SIA and Cathay Pacific (CX) in an interview with Pulse Tasmania media outlet to introduce direct international flights to Hobart, Tasmania’s capital.
Cathay Pacific & Singapore Tasmania Flights
Premier Rockliff emphasized the strategic importance of engaging with these world-leading air carriers, expressing enthusiasm about potential direct flight opportunities.
The potential route would eliminate current travel complexities for Singaporean travelers, who currently must navigate multiple transportation modes to reach Tasmania.
Currently, travelers from Singapore face challenging transit options, requiring either domestic Australian flights or ferry connections from Melbourne to Hobart. The proposed direct route would streamline travel, potentially increasing tourism and economic exchanges between Singapore and Tasmania.
SIA maintained a measured response regarding the potential route, stating that the airline consistently reviews its network and destination portfolio. An official spokesperson noted that any network expansions would be publicly announced at an appropriate time
Runway Upgrade to Unlock Direct Flights
An AUD 130 million (S$113 million) runway upgrade at Hobart Airport will enable non-stop flights between Singapore and Tasmania by mid-2025. The infrastructure expansion will accommodate fully loaded long-haul wide-body aircraft, including Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 models, creating new international travel opportunities.
Travel industry experts predict significant potential for this route, highlighting Tasmania’s unique appeal to Singaporean travelers seeking alternative Australian destinations. Alicia Seah from 3Playtopia noted that most Singaporean travelers have already explored major Australian cities like Perth, Sydney, and Melbourne, making Tasmania an attractive new frontier.
The destination offers compelling attractions that differentiate it from traditional Australian tourism routes. Tasmania’s reputation for outdoor activities, distinctive wildlife, scenic landscapes, and premium golf courses presents a fresh travel experience for Singaporean tourists.
The proposed route would dramatically reduce travel complexity, eliminating multiple transit points and offering travelers greater flexibility in trip planning.
Independent aviation analyst Brendan Sobie highlighted to the Straits Times the significant challenges for establishing consistent Singapore-Hobart flight routes. Tasmania’s attractive destination status is counterbalanced by a small, highly seasonal market that complicates sustainable airline operations.
Sobie suggests low-cost carriers like Scoot might be more viable candidates for the route compared to Singapore Airlines. The potential service would likely require substantial promotional support and strategic incentives to remain economically feasible.
Changi Airport Group expressed openness to new destination services, emphasizing the importance of expanding connectivity.
The airport’s robust connection with Australia is underscored by data showing that 4.7 million passengers traveled between Singapore and Australia in the first nine months of 2024, positioning Australia as Changi’s fourth-largest market.
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