Etihad has announced new direct flights from Dublin to Perth in Australia. The airline will offer six weekly flights from July 15th 2014, with connections in Abu Dhabi.

The airline says nearly 32% of Irish visitors choose Perth as their gateway to Australia and they expect that trend to continue.

The flights will be operated by an Airbus A330-200 with 262 seats in two classes.

Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer James Hogan said the flights to Perth would bring new airline competition to the popular route.

"Our analysis shows there is a significant business opportunity on the Ireland to Perth route, with visitor arrivals averaging an annual growth rate of more than 27% over the past three years" he said.

"We also expect the new service will appeal strongly to Western Australians who wish to visit Ireland, and we will work with the excellent team at Tourism Ireland to develop this opportunity".

The new routes will also see a partner agreement with Virgin Australia, meaning travelers can further connect with 14 towns and cities throughout Western Australia.