MIRI: Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr George Chan Hong Nam (pictured right) is looking into possibility of getting an Australian aviation company to operate direct flights from the country to Miri.

With Qantas as the possible candidate, Dr Chan said an international flight into Miri would boost the image of the international airport here which can accommodate Airbus aircraft. This will also augur well for the upgrading of the town to resort city status.

"I am given to understand that Qantas will be mounting a direct flight from Perth to Kota Kinabalu some time next month.

"This is an opportunity that we should be looking into as we already have strong ties with Australia, particularly Perth with the establishment of Sarawak Campus of Curtin University of Technology in Miri," he told reporters at Miri Airport before leaving for Kuching yesterday.

Chan said the direct flight from Perth to Miri would ensure a smooth trip for students and parents flying to and from Australia.

Currently, Kuching, Kuala Lumpur and Brunei serve as gateways for them to get into Miri.

"I will be looking into possibility of such a connection, meet and discuss the matter with Qantas, including Malaysia Airlines and other aviation companies willing to operate direct international flights into Miri," he said. Direct international flight into Miri will also give a boost to the tourism industry in Miri which aimed to be a resort city by 2005, he added.