Victorians, who have been limited in their travel options longer than any other state in Australia, is being rewarded with a new Melbourne-Byron Bay flight route opening up and another new flight route on the way.
The new Qantas routes give Victorians direct access to the popular coastal hub of Byron Bay this summer, with three return flights operating every week with Boeing 737 aircraft.
Jetstar, Qantas’s budget arm already operates direct daily flights between Byron Bay and Melbourne.
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The Qantas flights between Melbourne and Byron Bay will increase during the peak summer holiday period between mid-December and late January, offering 2400 seats on the route each week.
Qantas domestic and international chief executive Andrew David said the new route was proving to be popular for travellers looking to book a beach holiday after months of lockdown.
“Byron Bay has been one of the most in-demand holiday destinations for Qantas and Jetstar customers over the past year and we’re pleased to be making it even easier for Victorians to visit,” Mr David said.
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“These additional flights are coming at the right time for families who’ve spent a lot of time at home in recent months and are looking forward to getting out and exploring the best of Australia.
Qantas has also announced that it will be opening up a Melbourne to Burnie flight route from 17 December.
The flying kangaroo will offer up to six services per week on the route until late January, with Qantas looking to increase this to 12 from February.
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QantasLink chief executive John Gissing said the company was delighted to finally offer this route after direct flights, which were originally slated to begin back in June, were pushed back due to lockdowns and travel restrictions.
Tasmania will open its border to fully vaccinated and COVID-negative passengers from all Australian states and territories from 15 December, when the state is expected to reach its 90 per cent vaccination target.
“After months of closed borders, we are offering special fares to make it even easier for people to reunite with family and friends and take a much-needed holiday,” Mr Gissing said.
“They’ll also open up more travel options for people looking to explore Tasmania’s beautiful north-west coast.”
Which new flight routes are you most excited about trying? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below?
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