A Booming Market by the Numbers
India has rapidly emerged as one of Queensland's most significant and fastest-growing international tourism markets. In the year ending September 2025, the state welcomed approximately 77,000 visitors from India. This influx of travellers contributed
an impressive USD 238.9 million to the state's economy, establishing India firmly among the top five inbound markets. The growth has been particularly strong for the Gold Coast, which saw a 35 per cent year-on-year increase in Indian visitors, welcoming 25,000 tourists. Brisbane also saw a steady 46,000 arrivals from India during the same period. This surge is part of a broader trend, with projections indicating the Indian market could contribute around $408 million in visitor spending by 2032, a substantial leap from pre-pandemic figures. However, recent data from May 2026 showed a temporary dip in arrivals, attributed to aviation disruption, highlighting the sensitivity of the market to flight availability and cost.
The Strategic Push for Direct Connectivity
Recognising the immense potential, key stakeholders in Queensland are actively working to bridge the final gap: the absence of direct flights. Currently, travellers from India must connect through hubs like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or other Southeast Asian cities. While airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific offer one-stop routes, the journey can be long and cumbersome. In a significant strategic move, tourism and economic bodies from Brisbane and the Gold Coast have united, appointing a dedicated representative in India to bolster trade engagement and lobby for a direct aviation link. This joint effort, involving the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, Brisbane Airport, and Experience Gold Coast, sends a clear signal that the Indian market is now a central pillar of Queensland's tourism strategy.
Why the Focus on Indian Travellers?
The focus on India is driven by more than just visitor numbers; it's about the value and nature of the travel. Indian tourists are crucial for leisure, business, education, and visiting friends and relatives (VFR). The state is home to a significant Indian diaspora of over 90,000 people and hosts thousands of Indian students, creating strong community and family ties that fuel travel. Beyond VFR, Indian travellers are drawn to Queensland’s iconic attractions, from the Gold Coast's theme parks to the Great Barrier Reef. Tourism officials have noted that Indian travellers are vital for supporting the region's hotels, local businesses, and a visitor economy worth billions. The long-term goal is to position Queensland as the top Australian destination for a wide range of Indian travellers, from families on holiday to corporate MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) groups.
Airlines Take Note as the Case Builds
The persistent demand is not going unnoticed by airlines. As recently as August 2026, reports indicated that Air India is actively evaluating the launch of new flights to Australia, with Brisbane being one of the two cities under consideration for a new direct service in 2026. The airline's plans are reportedly tied to the refurbishment and delivery of its wide-body Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 aircraft, which are suitable for the long-haul route. Brisbane Airport executives have been vocal about their pursuit of nonstop services to India, citing rising passenger volumes and expanding business ties as compelling reasons. While no airline has formally committed to a launch date, the combination of a coordinated push from Queensland and active evaluation from major carriers like Air India makes the prospect of direct flights more tangible than ever.
