Innovative ‘Flying Billboard’ set to entice more Asian visitors to the Northern Territory
Innovative 'Flying Billboard' set to entice more Asian visitors to the Northern Territory
Celebrating ten years of flying between Singapore and Darwin, Jetstar Asia unveiled its unique Northern Territory themed livery on an Airbus A320 aircraft at a special event held at Darwin International Airport this morning.
CEO NT Airports, Ian Kew said, "The new Jetstar Asia Northern Territory inspired livery is an innovative flying billboard with the potential to excite visitors from across Asia to travel to the Northern Territory."
Jetstar Asia has also announced a new operating schedule of seven days per week commencing in April, which will see the number of seats jump by 25% on the Darwin to Singapore route.
"Darwin is Australia's closest city to Asia, shorter in travel distance than Hong Kong is to Singapore, so this new aircraft livery has the unique ability to showcase the Northern Territory to a brand-new audience. The new Darwin - Uluru service and additional capacity on services to Alice Springs also opens up the Red Centre to our close Asian neighbours. The iconic natural earth tones of the Red Centre, and Uluru itself are must do destinations, and are increasingly being sort after by Asian travellers who want to enjoy unique experiences that their parents or even friends have not been able to do. Being less than five hours from Singapore, makes the entire Northern Territory very accessible to Asian markets."
As Chair of the Darwin Festival, Ian Kew was of course also delighted to see the Darwin Festival logo displayed on the aircraft. "This marketing opportunity came about after hosting a delegation of visitors from Singapore to the Festival last year which included the CEO of Jetstar Asia. The delegation was surprised and delighted with the wonderful experience they had at the Festival and were keen to spread the word to lovers of performing arts and festivals throughout Asia."
Jetstar Asia CEO, Mr. Bara Pasupathi, described the Northern Territory as a remarkable place to visit that offered something special for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure, a tropical getaway, stunning landscapes, incredible sunsets or amazing wildlife.
"I know first-hand that a trip to the Top End is a must for any traveller wanting a unique and memorable experience", Mr Pasupathi said.
"Since Jetstar Asia started flying into Darwin ten years ago, we have seen a steady and strong demand for services into the territory. By offering up to seven regular services a week on our Airbus 320, we are committed to providing more options for travellers from Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asia to discover Darwin.
"The livery collaboration with NT Tourism and NT Airports is the first of a number of opportunities that will see us increase awareness of our services and entice more visitors to explore this incredible destination".
Darwin International Airport has been steadily increasing its international efforts to stimulate and support the visitor economy by ongoing cooperative partnerships with key stakeholders. The two companies have been active in the Malaysian and Philippine markets resulting in impressive growth that has supported Jetstar Asia in adding more frequencies. Targeted campaigns in Asian markets, as well as additional investments with wholesalers in Singapore has resulted in 14% growth in visitation in the six-month period ending December 2018.
In collaboration with inbound tourism wholesalers, Qantas and Jetstar Asia, Darwin International Airport are working together to create new itineraries through Darwin and onto the Rock and Alice Springs that are promoted in key Asian markets.
"Darwin International Airport is delighted to have partnered with Jetstar Asia and Tourism NT to see this livery in Darwin for the first time today. These activations, together with new and increased funding for Tourism will continue to support tourism growth, international education and business opportunities. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Jetstar Asia to bring new services to Darwin International Airport in the future."