Australia Boosts Air Links To Italy And Strengthens European Access With New Rome-Perth Service For 2026

Australia is set to enhance its European connectivity with the launch of a new direct service between Rome and Perth, scheduled to begin in 2026. This strategic expansion by Qantas will significantly bolster Western Australia’s position as a key aviation hub, offering more seamless access to Europe. With increased flight frequencies and extended seasonal operations, this new service will cater to the growing demand for travel between Australia and Italy, fostering stronger ties between the two regions and boosting tourism, trade, and business opportunities.

Western Australia’s aviation sector is set to strengthen further, with Qantas announcing the expansion of its direct Rome–Perth service for 2026. This move enhances the state’s status as a key aviation hub, as it continues to lead the way for Australia by offering nonstop flights to Europe. With direct routes connecting Perth to London, Paris, and Rome, the city remains Australia’s primary gateway to Europe.

Qantas will run the seasonal Rome–Perth service from 3 May to 23 October 2026. This extended period provides travellers with an additional eight weeks to enjoy direct flights between the two destinations. Moreover, Qantas will increase the flight frequency during the peak travel months, rising from three to four weekly services. As a result, the 2026 season will see a significant increase in seat capacity, adding 44 extra services and nearly 10,000 inbound seats compared to the 2025 season.

Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth

The service extension is part of a broader initiative by the Western Australian government and Tourism WA to increase international tourism. It is backed by cooperative marketing campaigns aimed at raising awareness in Europe and encouraging bookings for travellers keen to explore Australia’s west coast. With this expansion, Western Australia aims to not only increase the number of European visitors but also to drive tourism revenue that supports local businesses and industries.

Italy, in particular, has proven to be an essential market for Western Australia. The state attracts Italian travellers both for leisure and for family visits. In 2024, Italy sent 8% more visitors to Western Australia than before the pandemic, marking a strong recovery. This growing demand is further supported by the increased connectivity between Perth and Italy through the expanded Qantas service.

The additional flights reflect the government’s commitment to its economic diversification strategy. By attracting more international visitors, particularly from Europe, the state is ensuring its tourism sector continues to thrive, generating significant income for local businesses. This initiative is also aligned with Western Australia’s long-term plans to promote itself as a major global tourism destination, capitalising on its unique culture, natural beauty, and thriving local industries.

Strengthening Western Australia’s Aviation Network

The Rome–Perth route forms part of a larger network of 20 nonstop international services that connect Western Australia to the world. These services not only serve as a vital link for tourism but also play an essential role in supporting trade and investment across the region. By offering more direct routes, Western Australia improves its position as an international aviation hub, making it easier for both tourists and business travellers to access the state.

The extension of the Rome–Perth service will support tourism growth by providing European travellers with more options to explore Western Australia’s unique offerings. From the stunning beaches and rugged outback to the vibrant cities and rich cultural experiences, there is no shortage of attractions for visitors. The extended flights also make it more convenient for families with ties to Italy to visit their loved ones in Western Australia, further strengthening the cultural and familial connections between the two regions.

The expanded service also opens up opportunities for Western Australians to travel more easily to Europe. Whether for leisure, business, or family reasons, increased flight frequency provides a broader range of options for those looking to connect with the European continent. The ease of travel between Perth and major European cities like Rome ensures that the relationship between Western Australia and Europe continues to grow in both directions.

Positive Impact on Tourism in Western Australia

Western Australia’s tourism sector is poised to benefit significantly from the expansion of the Rome–Perth route. The extended service provides greater access for international travellers who wish to visit iconic destinations such as Perth, Margaret River, Broome, and the Bungle Bungles. These areas offer a wealth of natural beauty, world-class wineries, and a rich cultural heritage, making them highly attractive to tourists from Europe and other regions.

As part of its strategy to boost tourism, the government has also partnered with local businesses to create a range of tailored packages and experiences for visitors arriving on the new flights. These initiatives will help visitors make the most of their time in Western Australia, exploring not just the well-known attractions but also hidden gems across the state. The more frequent flights will make it easier for tourists to travel across the vast and diverse landscape of Western Australia, enriching their experience and encouraging longer stays.

Moreover, the service extension will provide a boost to Western Australia’s business and events sectors. As more international travellers arrive, there will be increased demand for accommodation, dining, transport, and retail services. This influx of visitors will support local employment and provide a much-needed boost to industries that have faced challenges due to global disruptions over the past few years.

A Strategic Win for Western Australia

With the additional flights and longer operating season, Western Australia has taken another step toward solidifying its position as Australia’s Western Gateway. The extended Rome–Perth service will bring thousands of new visitors to the state, creating new opportunities for businesses and enhancing the overall tourism infrastructure.

The extension of this route ensures that Perth remains a key destination for European travellers seeking direct access to Australia. By strengthening the direct connection between Europe and Western Australia, the state is making it easier for tourists to experience all that it has to offer. The longer season and increased flight frequency demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to international connectivity, reflecting the state’s broader commitment to tourism, trade, and economic growth.

Australia is enhancing its European access with a new direct Rome-Perth service launching in 2026, aimed at meeting growing demand and strengthening ties between the two regions.

As Perth continues to establish itself as a global hub, the expanded Rome–Perth service will bring both short- and long-term benefits. It creates new opportunities for inbound tourism, increases cultural exchange, and fosters stronger ties between Australia and Europe. With this strategic expansion, Western Australia is poised to welcome more visitors, boost its economy, and secure its place as a key player in the international tourism market.

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