Australian Airlines to fly from Singapore to Darwin, Australia

Australian Airlines announced today that it would begin flying from Singapore to Darwin in the Northern Territory (Australia) twice weekly in May 2004.

Darwin is the 4th destination for Singaporeans and the 12th port in Australian Airlines' growing network.

Australian Airlines currently operates eight non-stop services each week from Singapore to the popular holiday destinations of Cairns, Bali and Sabah. Darwin will bring the number of weekly services to 10.

Australian Airlines Chief Executive Andrea Staines said Singapore was an important hub for Australian Airlines. 

"We operate three flights to Cairns, three to Bali and two to Sabah each week," Ms Staines said. "With just one short transit, Singaporeans can also travel to Sydney or the Gold Coast.

"The delivery of a fifth Boeing 767-300 aircraft has enabled Australian Airlines to fly twice a week between Singapore and Darwin, with an international connection to Cairns. The services, which begin on 5 May, will provide an addition 540 seats into Singapore each week." 

The new flights will depart from Singapore on Wednesdays and Sundays, returning to Singapore on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Ms Staines said the Northern Territory was the inspiration for Australian Airlines' signature colour - ochre.

"Australian Airlines chose ochre for its aircraft and logo because it is recognised as the colour of the heart of Australia," she said.

"When we fly we are showcasing Australia's Red Centre here and around the world. It is only fitting that we fly to the source of this distinctive colour."

With the addition of Darwin, Australian Airlines will operate 52 flights each week to six countries in 12 destinations -- Singapore, Hong Kong, Nagoya, Osaka, Fukuoka, Bali, Sabah, Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns and the Gold Coast.