International travel hits record high post-COVID as airlines expand routes to Australia

International travel has reached its highest level since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with airlines expanding routes into Australia.

Major airlines are increasing flights significantly. Singapore Airlines has boosted its average daily flights by 21 per cent compared to last year. Cathay Pacific has seen a 29 per cent rise, while Thai Airways is operating 67 per cent more flights weekly than this time last year.

Sydney Airport is preparing for its busiest holiday season since 2019, just before pandemic restrictions were imposed.

Turkish Airlines began its flights from Istanbul to Sydney last month and plans to increase services from four to five weekly by June.

Peak travel

The airport anticipates welcoming 5.8 million passengers during the Christmas and New Year period, with January 4 expected to be the peak day for international travel.

This figure represents an increase of 300,000 international travellers compared to the same period before the pandemic.

This rise in travel occurs despite financial pressures on households from rising costs.

According to Sydney Airport chief executive Scott Charlton, holidays remain a priority for many families.