Viva Macau is to start Sydney service following receipt of approval from Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia. The airline will commence flying directly from Macau to Sydney three times a week. The first return service from Sydney to Macau will start August 23, 2007.

Con Korfiatis, Viva Macau’s Chief Executive is grateful for the understanding of all affected passengers who were scheduled to fly with the airline on August 15 -16, August 18 -19, and August 20 -21, 2007.

All affected passengers were re-accommodated with either alternative flight arrangements on a similar schedule provided, a full refund or re-booked on a future Viva Macau flight. A free return ticket to any of Viva Macau’s scheduled destinations was also offered to each passenger, redeemable within twelve months.

“Last week’s postponement was unexpected and outside Viva Macau’s control, but with our reacting immediately and offering of all possible travel alternatives to our customers, the customer’s feedback and understanding have been very positive and encouraging,” Korfiatis said.

In addition, Korfiatis also expressed his thanks to CASA in granting the approval.

“We greatly appreciate the support we have been given by CASA during the process of approval. Viva Macau is pleased to be able to take off for Sydney,” Korfiatis said.

With the commencement of the service, Viva Macau is Macau’s first airline offering transcontinental route which marks a significant milestone in Macau’s aviation.

Viva Macau’s inaugural flight closely coincides with the opening of the world’s largest integrated resort next Tuesday. Korfiatis added that Viva Macau is confident in bringing in a significant amount of new tourists from Australia to Macau, Asia’s Las Vegas.

“The world is very excited about the vibrant development of Macau. With Macau’s mixed cultural charisma, uniquely rich historical background and heritage, convenient accessibility to Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta, on top of all these new leisure, entertainment, MICE facilities being developed, Viva Macau will continue to contribute in boosting Macau’s tourism,” Korfiatis said.