United flights to Brisbane hold more in store beyond tourism
United Airlines’ direct flights between Brisbane and San Francisco promise to bring 40,000 passengers from the US each year, but excitement is also building for what’s in store in the cargo hold.
Queensland exports leave Brisbane bound for San Francisco on new direct United Airlines flights.
Brisbane Airport Corporation estimates 60,000 kilograms of extra weekly cargo capacity will be created for Queensland exporters as direct flights between the two cities begin.
When the first United Airlines Brisbane to San Francisco service took off its cargo hold was packed with 15,000 kilograms of chilled beef, as well as 1200 kg of cosmetics and 900 kg of automotive parts.
Seafood, pharmaceuticals, live coral and fashion apparel is on the manifest for future flights.
Brisbane Airport Corporation CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said San Francisco was a major hub and gateway for United to provide fast access across North America, South America and Europe for Queensland exporters.
“These new services, supported by the Attracting Aviation Investment Fund, represent a partnership between the State Government, BAC and United Airlines that not only brings good news for the tourism and hospitality sectors, but helps our primary producers, manufacturers, and exporters right across Queensland,” de Graaff said.
Agriculture Minister Mark Furner said air freight was a vital component in Queensland’s beef supply chain.
In 2021-2022, Brisbane Airport facilitated 46,290 tonnes of exports, worth nearly $2 billion to the Queensland economy.
Each Boeing Dreamliner used on the route from Brisbane to San Francisco can carry about 20,000 kilograms of freight.
