Budget carrier Bonza Airlines is linking up two of Australia’s popular tourist destinations with a new direct route.
It announced on Friday it will fly from the Sunshine Coast to Launceston in Tasmania with two weekly services starting on March 29.
Travellers will now have the option of hopping on a flight to soak up the beach life or strap on their hiking boots to explore Tassie trails.
“We are delighted to connect the Sunny Coast and Launnie with direct low-cost air travel allowing customers to save time and money by avoiding lengthy road trips or metro city transfers and instead be able to maximise their holiday,” Tim Jordan, Bonza CEO, said.
“Launceston locals can ditch their Tassie tuxedos and explore more than 100km of sandy beaches while Sunny Coast travellers can lace up their hiking boots for an overland adventure across Tasmania as both destinations offer contrasting holiday options.”
The new service will operate twice weekly on Monday and Friday with flights from just $89 per person (one way) as the low-cost carrier continues its mission to connect more communities across regional Australia.
“The route is available to book now via the Fly Bonza app and those who get in quick can secure seats for as little as $49 per person one way as part of our Bonzaversary sale that goes until February 5,” Mr Jordan said.
The new route will be included in Bonza’s birthday sale and offers customers the chance to snap up 200,000 seats across all routes on the entire Bonza network for $49 per person, which will run until 23.59 AEST, February 5, 2024, on selected travel dates.
The new service marks the airline’s 12th from its home base at Sunshine Coast Airport and second route from Launceston Airport which it said provides a significant boost to tourism opportunities in both regions.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills said the new direct service will be the first in history between the Sunshine Coast and Tasmania.
“It will open up a new market for tourism operators here on the Sunshine Coast, with Tasmanians now having direct access to our pristine beaches, incredible restaurants and unique experiences,” he said.
“Launceston is now the 15th destination on offer from Sunshine Coast Airport and places Tasmania firmly on the doorstep for locals. Launceston has a rich history and offers culinary experiences with incredible natural wonders for people to explore.”
Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said they’re thrilled to see Bonza expanding its Tasmanian footprint and opening new markets for tourists to visit “our beautiful part of the world”.