Data from Flight Centre’s FCM Travel shows international bookings out of Brisbane have risen by 30 per cent year-on-year to the end of February 2024.

The data also showed a 17 per cent rise in the number of people travelling in the same period.

Flight Centre Corporate MD, Melissa Elf, said Brisbane is a destination of choice for business travellers.

“This new data tells us that homegrown companies are looking further afield to either reconnect with staff overseas, to attend meetings, events, and conferences, or making the journey abroad in an attempt to grow,” Ms Elf said.

“Ever since the Commonwealth Games visited the Gold Coast, investment in Brisbane has taken off exponentially, with more and more major domestic and international businesses choosing to move their operations and HQs to the Sunshine State capital.

“It’s an incredibly exciting time for Brisbane with the city hosting the Games in 2032, the Queen’s Wharf development not too far away from completion, and multiple bridges under construction that’ll boost connectivity across the city.”

It comes as United Airlines launched a Brisbane to Los Angeles service which is already underway with Delta Air Lines flying the route from December 2024.

Brisbane Airport CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff, said there remains an undeniable value in flying to engage with clients and foster genuine relationships.

“Flights across The Pacific will be at unprecedented levels by the end of 2024, with five carriers serving major hubs, with direct connections to North, Central and South America,” he said.

“This makes it easier than ever for Queensland businesses to connect with one of our largest trade, investment, and tourism markets.”