Qantas has introduced new codeshare services to Italy, Cyprus and Malta as a result of new air services agreements negotiated by the Australian Government.
From the end of last month, the Qantas code was added to daily Emirates services between Dubai and Bologna (Italy), Larnaca (Cyprus) and Malta, marking the first expansion of services since the new air deals were announced in July.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester the new arrangements were part of the Government’s plan to expand Australia’s aviation footprint in the region.
“In settling revised air services arrangements with Italy, the Australian Government has delivered on an outcome long sought by the Australian aviation industry,” Chester said.
“Australian airlines now have the ability to significantly expand existing code share operations to Italy, as well as an opportunity to start weekly freight services between the two countries.
Chester said travel between Australia and Italy had been growing strongly for several years and that it was important for Australian airlines to share in that growth.
“More than half a million people travelled between Australia and Italy last year, so the benefit for our trade and tourism industries is obvious,” he said.
