Low cost airfares have boosted the lucrative fly/drive market. Tourism Queensland research had confirmed a significant growth in the fly/drive market, particularly for Tropical North Queensland, says Tourism Minister Margaret Keech.
Tourists are flying to destinations like Cairns and hiring a car to explore the region. Although the fly/drive market is part of the wider drive tourism sector, lower airfares mean it can be more convenient for visitors to arrive by air, then explore by car.
The fly/drive market generally comprises affluent singles, couples, families, empty nesters and golden age lifestylers. They spend more than $5000 on their fly/drive trips, making them the most lucrative segment of the drive market.
Queensland enjoyed a 19 percent increase in the fly/drive market in the year ended March 2005 and an average 24 percent annual growth from 2002 to 2005.
The national fly/drive market is worth more than $3 billion annually and is the most profitable sector of the drive market.
2 Comments
Mission Beach Visitor Centre now has a great regional mag called Explore the Great Green Way – the region between Townsville and Cairns. Great off the beaten track unspoilt destinations. Please email us if you would like a copy
Thanks,
Sandal Hayes
Manager
I can vouch for the Great Green Way drive being the business. There are some awesome places to visit and if you’ve got a 4WD you can get to remote places like Blencoe Falls where you can swim in a croc-free river and not see a soul for days.