Australia... Now Easier to Get To!

Yesterday the US and Australia finalized a landmark Open Skies Agreement which will allow for more routes, airlines and frequency of flights between US and Australian cities.

In the past, Qantas and United Airlines have had a virtual lock on routes between the US and Australia, being the only carriers permitted non-stop flights between Australia and the lower-48 states. With this agreement, when it is fully implemented, you can expect not only more choices in airlines, times, frequency and availability, but the increased competition should bring down these traditionally expensive fares.

Expected to jump into the arena quickly are at least one of the Virgin brands, most likely Virgin Blue. Other carriers should also join this lucrative market soon.

This is great news for cruisers, as it will make the increasingly popular Australia/New Zealand cruises more easily accessible. Won't do anything about the flight time, but will make it easier on your pocketbook.