Echo Entertainment and Crown Casino are battling it out as they compete for a casino license in Brisbane – and both companies are pulling out all the stops. This week, Crown Casino’s proposal was bolstered by support from China Eastern Airlines, which may be a game changer.

According to a report in the Courier Mail, China Eastern Airlines is interested in working with Crown Casino – if the operator can secure a casino license in Brisbane. The airline does not currently operate a direct flight to Queensland, but may consider doing so if Crown is able to open up a new casino resort in the state. While both Crown Casino and Echo Entertainment have both put forth enticing deals, this may be the game-changer.

The Queensland government has started granting new casino licenses with the goal of attracting more tourists. In recent years, Asian tourists have been flocking to high roller casinos in Australia, and Queensland wants to get in on the action. Now, with the potential to have direct flights to China, state officials may lean more towards Crown Casino’s proposal.

“We have yet to commence a direct service from Shanghai to Queensland; however, we are keen to explore the opportunity of such a service to Brisbane or the Gold Coast if the right drawcard is presented,” says Liu Shaoyong, Chairman of the airline. “Should Greenland win (the) Queen’s Wharf bid, we will prioritise the proposed direct service from Shanghai to Brisbane.”

Over the course of the past year, the two companies have announced bigger and better additions to their casino proposals. Recently, both Crown and Echo announced the involvement of celebrity chefs in the launch of their new casino resorts – putting both operators on even footing. Now, it is time for Echo Entertainment to one-up Crown. We are excited to see what Echo can offer in order to top its competitor.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.