Direct flights between Australia and Turkey have become a reality following the signing of the first air services agreement between the countries on February 21, 2010.

Calwell MP Maria Vamvakinou said as the representative of an electorate with the largest Turkish population in Victoria, the agreement was welcome news. “Over the years I’ve been aware of the increasing demand for direct flights between Turkey and Australia.

‘’In Meadow Heights alone we have more than 2000 residents of Turkish background, followed by almost a thousand in Roxburgh Park and hundreds in Dallas, Campbellfield and Greenvale.

“I think it  is safe to say many in Calwell will be taking advantage of the time-saving convenience of the direct flights in the future.’’

Ms Vamvakinou said the new flight agreement was finalised in time for this year’s ANZAC Day events at Gallipoli.

 “Australian and Turkish airlines can immediately begin operating up to five direct flights a week. 

“Up until now, Australians wanting to visit Turkey had to travel via a third country such as Singapore,’’ she said.

The agreement also allows the carriers of both countries to enter into code-share arrangements with the airlines of a third country to provide services between Australia and Turkey via intermediate destinations.

The announcement is another major milestone in the continuing development of Australia’s almost century old relationship with Turkey.

 During 2009, more than 60,000 people travelled between Australia and Turkey, with over 80 per cent of these travellers being Australians.

The new agreement marks further progress towards the Government’s objective, as outlined in our Aviation White Paper, of an open and competitive international aviation market.

Media contact:  Marianthi Kypuros:  (03) 9309 3655