A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 has flown a cargo-only flight from Adelaide to Singapore, carrying 40 tons of lobster, fish, lamb and wine.
The fresh produce first flew to Singapore, with smaller quantities then shipped to Hong Kong, Thailand and China.
Another 14 carriers, including Cathay Pacific, Emirates and Etihad, will operate further flights, to support struggling Australian exporters.
The flights are being operated as part of the International Freight Assistance Mechanism.
The initiative will see the Australian Government subsidize the cost of transporting produce to Asia, which is Australia’s largest export market.
“We’re backing South Australia’s farmers and fishers through this agreement that will restore this critical freight route and give exporters a direct line back into key export markets across Asia,”
Simon Birmingham, Federal Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment
In the first three weeks of its operation, over 560 Australian businesses have registered their interest in utilizing the scheme.
Further agreements for 55 freight flights have already been secured, according to a media statement. The scheme will cost $110 million AUD ($71 million).
Article Sources: Australian Department of Trade and Australian Aviation. Feature Image: Adelaide Airport
Laden, without the d at the end
Fixed!
Why are foreign airliners flying australian cargo? Why are the Australian farmers not supporting Australian airlines and people?