The first direct Qantas flight from Sydney to Dubai jetted off today, signalling the start of the new partnership agreement between Qantas and Emirates.
This followed the flyover of Sydney Harbour by a Qantas and an Emirates A380 aircraft, a sight that will promote Australian tourism around the world.
For today Qantas travellers will be able to fly via Dubai, connecting them to more destinations in the Middle East, Africa and Europe.
The partnership will also bring overseas tourists to more regional destinations in Australia and better access to international markets for regional Australians.
Regional Australians will now be able to be use the Flying Kangaroo from Armidale to Amsterdam, from Dubbo to Dublin and from Mount Isa to Istanbul on a single ticket with bags checked right through to the final destination.
The Middle East has grown to be an important global hub for business and aviation so partnerships like these offer Australians new markets and greater connectivity with global industries.
The partnership between Qantas to Dubai builds on the strong aviation relationships we have in the Middle East and strengthens the bilateral ties between our two countries.
I congratulate Qantas and Emirates on their inaugural flight.