Oz Flight Price Drop

Travel between Sydney, Australia, and Los Angeles, considered one of the more popular but most expensive routes in the world, may be soon be getting more competitive for airlines and cheaper for passengers.

After a decade of wrangling, Australian and U.S. negotiators agreed to a landmark aviation pact to open their skies to each other's airlines, and Los Angeles International Airport may become the big winner. It is the nation's busiest hub for flights to and from Australia.

The deal, which must be ratified by both governments, would open the route to more airlines, including a fare-slashing carrier started by British billionaire Richard Branson.

Some analysts predicted that fares, currently hovering at $1,500 for the cheapest round-trip coach ticket between Los Angeles and Sydney could fall below $1,000 -- in line with other international flights of similar distances.

"History has shown that competition in the aviation sector delivers real benefits to travellers and the tourism industry in general," Mr Turner said.

"This has been clearly illustrated in the Australian domestic market, with travellers enjoying an unprecedented wave of discounting following the arrival of Virgin Blue, Jetstar and Tiger.