International Direct Flights

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:51): A further supplementary arising from the answer in relation to international flights: is the minister aware of whether either Emirates or Singapore Airlines have closed or announced the closure of offices in Adelaide?

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment) (14:51): Both those organisations have indicated they are closing offices, and that is somewhat disappointing. However, they have not decreased their number of flights; in fact, Singapore Airlines chose Adelaide as the city to bring the first of their fleet of A350s with extra seats and extra capacity. There are also some discussions with Singapore Airlines about having more than one flight a day coming into Adelaide. It is a little disappointing that their offices have closed, but the actual level of service from aircraft and seats into and out of Adelaide hasn't changed: in fact, it is increasing, with aircraft like the A350.