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MALAYSIA Airlines will fly between Kuala Lumpur and Brisbane four times a week in a move that is expected to inject nearly $100 million into the Queensland economy over the next three years.
A consortium led by Tourism and Events Queensland which included Tourism Australia and Brisbane Airport Corporation secured the flights, which are forecast to bring more than 60,000 additional tourists to Queensland each year.
Malaysian travellers spent $137 million more in Australia in the year to September, totalling $1.4 billion, an increase of 11 per cent.
Brisbane Airport Corporation Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Julieanne Alroe said Malaysia Airlines' return is great news for the whole of Queensland and every sector of the economy, from business and commerce to tourism, trade, education and beyond.
"We are delighted to welcome Malaysia Airlines back into the Brisbane Airport family as these flights will further enhance Brisbane's global reach, providing a convenient, direct connection to Kuala Lumpur, a thriving international hub," Ms Alroe said.
"Via Kuala Lumpur passengers will have access to Malaysia Airlines' extensive network including India, South East Asia and the UK.
"Additionally, these flights are expected to bring more than 60,000 international visitors to Queensland each year, many of which will travel onwards to some of Australia's most desirable tourist destinations via Brisbane Airport's comprehensive regional network of any airport in Australia.
"All in all, it is another significant step for the city and state in positioning Brisbane as a major Asia Pacific centre and the future gateway to Australia."
Tickets for the new route have gone on sale, with Malaysia Airlines to begin flying between Kuala Lumpur and Brisbane in April this year.
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