China Southern’s Test Flight: Perth to Vanuatu Complete

China Southern Airlines Expands Pacific Services with New Routes to Perth and Vanuatu

China Southern Airlines is making significant strides in the Pacific region by resuming seasonal flights to Perth Airport (PER) and successfully completing a test flight to Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, Vanuatu. This expansion, set to begin on November 30, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for both tourism and economic growth in Western Australia.

The Guangzhou-based airline will operate flights to Perth three times a week, utilizing its modern Boeing 787-9 aircraft. This service is expected to enhance connectivity between China and Western Australia, a key goal for local tourism authorities.

Strengthening Ties Between China and Western Australia

Western Australia’s Tourism Minister, the Hon. Reece Whitby, emphasized the importance of this seasonal service. He stated, "China remains one of WA’s key international visitor markets, and this seasonal direct service helps make it even easier for visitors from China to explore our state’s unique experiences and natural beauty." This sentiment underscores the value of direct flights in boosting tourism.

Perth Airport’s Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer, Kate Holsgrove, also highlighted the significance of this development. "China currently represents Western Australia’s fourth largest international market by visitor number, with 68,000 visitors in 2024, injecting $302 million into the economy," Holsgrove noted. She emphasized that increasing flight capacity to China is crucial for the growth of Western Australia’s tourism sector.

Future Prospects for Direct Flights to China

Holsgrove mentioned that while China Southern’s three weekly services are confirmed until March 2026, there are ongoing discussions with the State Government to potentially increase the frequency of flights in the coming years. Direct aviation connections are essential for boosting tourism, business, export, and education sectors in the region.

Successful Test Flight to Port Vila, Vanuatu

In addition to its services to Perth, China Southern Airlines successfully completed a test flight to Port Vila, Vanuatu, on April 29, 2025. The flight, operated with a Boeing 737 MAX8, carried 30 passengers and included a stopover at Port Moresby International Airport (POM) in Papua New Guinea.

A report from the Vanuatu Daily Post in July 2024 indicated that Vanuatu and China are planning to sign an Air Transportation Agreement, which aims to enhance flight connectivity and facilitate trade and tourism between the two countries.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Pacific Travel

While there are currently no regular flights scheduled between China and Vanuatu, the successful test flights represent a promising step towards establishing a more robust aviation link. With ongoing efforts to improve connectivity, both China Southern Airlines and local authorities are optimistic about the future of travel in the Pacific region.

Are you excited about the return of direct flights from China to Perth and the potential for new routes to Vanuatu? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and check out our related articles for more updates on international travel trends!

For additional information on flight schedules and tourism impacts, visit Tourism WA and China Southern Airlines.