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The recently opened Courtyard by Marriott Perth, Murdoch
Analysis by travel intelligence leader ForwardKeys reveals remarkable growth in Western Australia’s capital.
Once the last Australian state to reopen its borders after the pandemic, Western Australia — more specifically, Perth — is experiencing a surge in popularity, both as a destination in its own right and as a crucial transfer hub connecting Europe with the rest of Australia.
A strategic partnership with Qantas, establishing Perth Airport as a key hub, combined with the city’s appealing blend of sunshine, urban vibrancy, and natural beauty, has fueled this growth, which has even surpassed pre-pandemic levels in terms of international inbound capacity.
Seat capacity growth beats the national average
International airlines have significantly increased their operations at Perth Airport (PER) throughout 2024. Available seat capacity on international routes into Perth is up by over 30% compared to 2023, significantly outpacing the 14% increase seen nationwide.
Domestically, the airport is thriving, with an 8% increase in available seat capacity in 2024. Its combined domestic and international growth positions Perth as the fastest-growing Australian city for air travel, outperforming established hubs Sydney and Melbourne.
A strategic gateway for European travellers
The influx of French travellers is particularly noteworthy. A new direct Qantas route between Paris Charles de Gaulle and Perth has led to a substantial increase in arrivals from Paris, including a significant rise in premium cabin bookings, indicating strong appeal to high-value travellers.
The number of international travellers using Perth’s strategic west coast location as a gateway to other Australian destinations has grown dramatically — and many extend their stay in Perth, proving the city’s ability to convert transit passengers into tourists.
Further growth projected to year-end
Bing Han, ForwardKeys’ VP of Sales, APAC, commented, “The outlook remains positive through December 2024. International arrivals are projected to continue their upward trend, with strong growth anticipated from key markets like Japan, the USA, and South Korea. The increasing number of couples, families, and groups choosing Perth as their destination underscores its diverse appeal and ability to cater to a wide range of travel styles.
Perth’s remarkable journey from a relatively isolated city to a thriving international hub and desirable tourist destination is a testament to its strategic vision, natural attractions, and growing global recognition.
