A BUDDING partnership between two heavyweight airlines could boost Albury-Wodonga tourism.
As part of its partnership with Qantas, Emirates is about to add eight NSW destinations to its international bookings.
It means international Emirates customers can book flights to the cities without using other websites.
As is custom, Albury will be the first destination by alphabetical order, followed by Armidale, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Port Macquarie, Sydney, Tamworth and Wagga.
Albury Council’s director of economic development and tourism Tracey Squire said the addition of Albury to Emirates’ destinations could only be a positive thing.
“Anything that makes it easier for people to visit Albury-Wodonga is welcome news,” she said.
“Tourism is worth $286 million to Albury-Wodonga and hopefully partnerships like this will help that figure grow.
“This presents us with a chance to target a new international market.”
Qantas international chief Simon Hickey said the move would make travel within Australia easier and provide tourism operators with new opportunities.
The airlines would develop campaigns to promote the new network.
They are working on details of joint pricing, schedules and frequent flyer benefits.
