Perth Airport Eyes New Asia-Pacific Links
Perth Airport (PER) is set to unlock new aviation connections across the Asia-Pacific region, with CEO Jason Waters outlining a bold vision that combines strong passenger growth, new international routes, and a multibillion-dollar infrastructure program. This strategic push comes as Perth prepares to host Routes Asia 2025, an event that will bring together key aviation leaders from across the region.
“We are keen to further develop direct aviation connections with key markets such as China, as well as developing routes with new, unserved regions such as India and the Republic of Korea,” Waters stated. “We are canvassing new destination experiences, new markets for exporting fresh food, new international educational opportunities, and increased business connections.” His remarks highlight the airport’s commitment to expanding its international network and reinforcing Perth as a critical regional hub.
Routes Asia 2025 is scheduled to take place in Perth from March 25-27, attracting approximately 1,000 delegates. Waters intends to use this high-profile event to pitch Perth’s growing potential as an international aviation hub. “Perth is a dynamic, expanding hub with incredible growth opportunities,” he said. “We’re focused on attracting new international airlines and creating value across tourism, business, education, and exports.”
The renewed drive to boost Perth’s global connectivity follows a record year at the airport. In 2024, PER handled a record 16.9 million passengers—an increase of 1.6 million from the previous year—with more than half of this surge coming from international travelers. This robust growth was spurred by airlines adding new routes and expanding frequencies in response to a surge in post-pandemic demand.
Recent airline announcements underscore PER’s expanding international footprint. Qantas, for instance, has broadened its direct European services from Perth, adding Paris to its existing nonstop flights to London and Rome. In addition, carriers such as Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, and Air New Zealand have increased capacity, while South African Airways, Thai Airways, and All Nippon Airways have returned or enhanced their operations at the airport. New market entrants have also contributed, with AirAsia launching its inaugural service at PER and Jetstar opening fresh international routes.
Looking ahead, further growth is expected in 2025. TransNusa is set to launch flights to Denpasar-Bali, and Virgin Australia, in partnership with Qatar Airways, will add a direct service to Doha. These new routes are a testament to Perth Airport’s strategic initiatives to strengthen international connectivity and support Western Australia’s economic development.
Supporting this momentum is a comprehensive capital works program that promises to transform Perth Airport over the next decade. In May 2024, PER announced plans to invest around A$3 billion ($1.9 billion) in new terminal facilities and a parallel runway as part of a broader A$5 billion investment plan. This program also covers enhancements to car parks, transport infrastructure, and the development of a hotel. The “One Airport” vision aims to deliver greater efficiency for airlines, an enhanced travel experience for passengers, and significant economic benefits for the region.
The initiative is further bolstered by the “Team Perth” collaboration—a joint effort by PER, Tourism Western Australia, the state government, and industry stakeholders—to secure new airline partners and expand Perth’s global reach. With these strategic measures, Perth Airport is well-positioned to drive the next phase of growth in the Asia-Pacific aviation market.
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