A Northern Territory delegation will travel to China from 27 to 30 May as part of the Donghai Airlines, inaugural flight ceremony.

This visit forms part of the Territory’s commitment to building a sustainable aviation network and attracting the first ever, new direct international air service from China.

Key meetings with the airline will occur, as well as meetings to formalise partnerships with key businesses.

Michael Tennant, Chief Executive Officer for the Department of Trade, Business and Innovation and Acting Chief Executive Officer for the Department of Tourism and Culture said the trip was an opportunity to strengthen tourism, trade and investment links between the Territory and China.

“It is important that we continue to build on our trade partnership with China, which is one of our most important.

“In 2017 trade between China and the Territory totalled $2.06 billion – including exports worth $1.93 billion,” Mr Tennant said.

Formalities around the inaugural flight will take place on Tuesday 29 May, ahead of the first Donghai airlines flight into Darwin.

Travel costs* for Northern Territory Government staff are as follows:

Department of Trade, Business and Innovation – 1 staff member

• Flights: $3050.90
• Accommodation: $650

Department of Tourism and Culture – 2 staff members

• Flights: $4785.80
• Accommodation: $1055

Department of Tourism and Culture – Chair Tourism NT Board

• Flights: $4568.90
• Accommodation: $335

*Travel costs are based on the official itineraries received from the travel provider prior to departure and the known exchange rate at the time.

Media Contact: Department of Tourism and Culture 0448 698 409