Gold Coast chases direct flights from Thailand

Mayor Tom Tate has met with Thailand’s Tourism and Sport Minister, seeking direct flights for the Gold Coast.

“We presented the city’s capacity as a sports training and events destination, as well as our obvious shared tourism appeal,” he said.

“I’ve presented the idea of encouraging a direct flight link, from either Phuket or Bangkok, to the Gold Coast. The feedback was positive and I’ve now left it with Paul Donovan (chair, Destination Gold Coast) to progress.”

Thai Minister Weerasak Kowsurat agreed that a direct air link would boost outbound tourism for both destinations.

Mr Donovan said a carrier such as Thai Air Asia was a perfect fit given its modern fleet and capacity to offer competitive fares.

The Mayor was in Phuket to sign the first agreement between the Gold Coast and Phuket as the two tourism destinations look to formalise a Sister Cities arrangement.

Mayor Tate said the Gold Coast could offer Phuket knowledge in lifeguard services, beach rubbish collection, sports training, sports event management and tourism marketing.

“I hope Paul’s dual role with both Gold Coast Airport and Destination Gold Coast will help us secure a direct air link,” he said.

Mr Donovan accompanied the Mayor to visits with Phuket Tourism Board and the Vice Governor of Phuket, Prakob Wongmaneerung, as well as the Thai Sport and Tourism Minister.

Other representatives present at the meetings were the Thai-Australia Business Council, Thai Sports Authority and key universities based in Phuket.