China Southern to suspend Darwin–Guangzhou flights
The last scheduled departure is on 3 December, ending the NT’s only direct air connection with China.
China Southern Airlines will withdraw its Darwin–Guangzhou service when the current season ends, with its final scheduled departure from Darwin on 3 December. The route began operating in December 2025.
Airport Development Group (ADG), the operator of Darwin International Airport, described the suspension as a commercial decision by the airline. A spokesperson said passengers could still reach China through connecting hubs such as Singapore, Denpasar and Dili.
The service was the NT’s sole direct connection to China and its longest international route. When announced in August 2025, it was expected to provide 52,000 seats a year between Darwin and Guangzhou.
Northern Territory Chamber of Commerce CEO Glen Hingley said the decision disappointed businesses beyond tourism, including those seeking to expand. He called for government agencies, industry groups and the airport to work together on making routes viable, with freight opportunities considered alongside passenger demand.
The withdrawal follows other reductions in Darwin’s international services. Qantas began flying to Singapore in 2025 but had limited the route to the peak tourism season by June 2026. AirAsia, which introduced Bali and Kuala Lumpur services in 2025, had left Darwin entirely by then.
ADG said it remained in discussions with airlines and aviation partners about additional international connections for Darwin.
