(TAN): Qantas is set to launch flights from Sydney to Merimbula for the first time, ahead of the summer holidays, the airline said.
From December 18, Qantas will operate four direct flights every week with its 50-seat Q300 turboprop aircraft, adding more than 400 seats on the route each week, subject to government approval. More flights will be added if there is strong demand.
QantasLink CEO John Gissing said, “With border restrictions fuelling demand for intra-state travel, we see a big opportunity to bring more tourists to Merimbula. This will be the first time that the flying kangaroo has flown to the Sapphire Coast, which will mean more competitive fares on a route that has been a monopoly for decades.”
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These new flights will help more travellers explore the beautiful beaches and unique wildlife in and around Merimbula and give locals more choice in how they get to Sydney, added Gissing.
New South Wales Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres welcomed the announcement and encouraged Sydneysiders to take the opportunity to support the South Coast by visiting this summer.
“NSW’s far South Coast is known for its stunning beaches, as well as the fantastic bushwalks, delicious oysters and excellent fishing throughout the region,” Ayres said.
Bega Valley Shire Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said the new Qantas flights demonstrated the value of long-term planning to maintain growth and services in the Shire referring to the construction of Merimbula Airport. He also welcomed the Qantas decision.
