Aero Dili flies to Australia for the first time

“Today marks a truly historic occasion for Airport Development Group, the owners of Darwin International Airport, the Northern Territory and our friends in Timor-Leste,” said Tony Edmondstone, CEO of Darwin Airport operator Airport Development Group (ADG).

“We are proud to welcome Aero Dili’s first-ever flight to Australia and celebrate the commencement of a service that strengthens connections between our communities, businesses and governments.

“Timor-Leste is one of Australia’s closest neighbours and an increasingly important partner in our region. This new route enhances accessibility, supports economic development and provides Territorians with greater opportunities to travel to Dili and connect onward throughout the region.

“Darwin has a long history of fostering strong relationships across the Asia-Pacific, and today’s inaugural flight is another important step in strengthening those connections for future generations.”

Lourenco De Oliveira, CEO of Air Dili, hailed the inaugural service as “a proud and historic milestone for Aero Dili as we expand our international network”.

“Darwin is a natural partner for Timor-Leste. The close geographic proximity, strong people-to-people connections and growing economic relationship make this an important route for both countries,” he said.

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“We are excited to provide new travel opportunities for passengers, support tourism and business growth, and further strengthen the friendship between Timor-Leste and Australia.”

The NT Government has welcomed the new service, with Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill, calling it a “commendable achievement” for Aero Dili.

“Establishing an airline to create aviation links with key regional neighbours is a crucial step for any country. As one of our closest neighbours, Timor-Leste is an increasingly important trade, investment and strategic partner for the Territory,” she said.

“The additional air connectivity between Darwin and Dili will help strengthen business links, facilitate tourism, support workforce mobility, and improve opportunities for economic collaboration.”

Both the NT and Timor-Leste governments say the Aero Dili service will bring increased visitation both ways, and provide “enhanced connectivity for business travellers, government delegations, students, workers, and tourists”.

Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta said the country is “building practical, lasting connections with neighbours” as ASEAN’s newest member state.

“The first Aero Dili route from Dili to Darwin is more than a flight route. It is a bridge of 2 of 2 friendship, commerce, education and people-to-people connection across the Timor Sea.

“I congratulate Aero Dili for strengthening the partnership between Timor-Leste and Northern Territory. I welcome this new chapter with deep gratitude and optimism.”

Darwin-Dili is also served by Airnorth and QantasLink.