arrr... I wouldn't trust a word from those HR people.
If those words come from someone who is "able" to interview you and is directly linked to the operation (i.e. chief engineer, project manager), then I would take the words lor.
For some HR people, their responsibility is to find the best candidate for the company. However, when they fly all the way to meet you doesn't mean he/she has super high interest in you. To fly over to see someone, the 1st objective is to show the company that he/she is working hard not searching locally only. Plus, the person get the benefit to travel for fun (may be).
But don't worry, that's just my opinion towards the situation. Whether you are their frist prospect or not, I can't tell, but for sure they are interested in your qualification, which matters the most. When my company hire people, we care about the qualification and experience highlight the most.
In most industry, it is hard to hire good people now. So don't worrry. There are lots of opportunities out there at the moment  |