Hainan Airlines announced on August 31 the upcoming launch of its Shenzhen-Cairns service on 19 December. Recently, the carrier and Tourism and Events Queensland have signed a cooperation agreement in Beijing and jointly announced the launch of the service. Under the agreement, the two parties will collaborate in terms of marketing strategies and campaigns by combining their advantages and resources, in an effort to create a better travel experience for passengers.

The Shenzhen-Cairns service is Hainan Airlines' second non-stop service between Shenzhen and points in Queensland, Australia, following the roll out of the Shenzhen-Brisbane service on September 20. It is also the carrier's sixth non-stop service between Australia and China.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events of Queensland Kate Jones said these new flights, delivered in partnership with Cairns Airport and Tourism and Events Queensland, will open up additional opportunities for travellers to experience our unique tourism offerings, including direct access to the Great Barrier Reef.

"The new service will further promote economic and cultural exchanges between China and Australia, while Hainan Airlines will also provide world-class aviation services to passengers traveling between the two countries," added Hou Wei, Vice President at Hainan Airlines. With the launch of the new service, Hainan Airlines' network of routes to Australia now includes four key cities in the eastern half of the country's three major states. The 12 weekly flights will further meet the diverse needs of the flying public.

In addition, Hainan Airlines and Virgin Australia have signed multiple cooperation agreements including ones involving code-sharing and frequent flyer programs following their entry into an equity cooperation agreement in 2016, in a move by both to provide a better flying experience to passengers.