Today's announcement that Singapore Airlines will operate
additional flights to Christchurch this summer is being welcomed by
Christchurch Airport.
The airline is increasing its daily service to between 9 and 10
flights a week between 2 December 2015 and 15 February 2016.
Airport chief executive Malcolm Johns says the supplementary
flights reflect an extra 7,290 seats into Christchurch.
"That will bring an additional $15 million in visitor spending.
Given 75% of the international visitors that arrive via
Christchurch also visit other areas this will have a positive
impact on our regional economies," he says.
"This is also excellent news for our exporters, enabling them to
transport an extra 378 tonnes of high value/time sensitive air
freight to fast growing Asian markets. It is also excellent news
for South Islanders wanting to travel to Asia or Europe."
Malcolm Johns has no doubt the services will be popular.
"Singapore Airlines has one of the most extensive networks in
the world meaning it will be easy for visitors from not only Asia
but key markets in Europe to get to Christchurch. The South
Island is also growing in popularity with Asian visitors and these
extra flights reflect
confidence in that.
"Singapore Airlines remains one of the world's iconic airlines
and we are delighted to see our relationship continue to go from
strength to
strength."