Virgin Australia launches new Cairns-Gold Coast flight service
The launch of a new Far North flight route in time for Christmas is testament to Virgin Australia’s commitment to the region, the boss of Cairns Airport says.
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VIRGIN Australia has announced it is launching a new direct flight service between Cairns and the Gold Coast as the airline expands its domestic network.
Tickets are now on sale for the new flights, which are scheduled to begin on December 9 and will provide nearly 9000 seats a month.
The airline joins Jetstar on the direct Cairns-Gold Coast route.
Cairns Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said the increase in services was a very welcome announcement for both the region and the airport.
“The addition of Gold Coast services means Virgin Australia are serving more destinations from Cairns than ever and that’s great testament to their commitment to serve Tropical North Queensland and rebuild after the past 18 months,” he said.
Mr Barker said more than 120,000 passengers flew between Cairns and the Glitter Strip each year.
“It’s another opportunity for people to enjoy holidays with everything from the surf of the Gold Coast to the reef and rainforest of Tropical North Queensland,” he said.
“Subject to border restrictions easing soon, Virgin Australia will operate 53 percent more seats to and from Cairns in December 2021 versus December 2019, and that’s a great vote of confidence in Cairns and our region.”
Virgin Australia’s chief strategy and transformation officer Alistair Hartley said the airline recognised there was a growing demand and increasing confidence to travel.
It follows recent launches of several other domestic routes from Cairns, including a new QantasLink service to Adelaide and SkyTrans flights to the Whitsundays.
Far Northerners are also starting to look towards potential overseas travel in 2022.
Jetstar has confirmed it intends to restart Japan flights in February and Bali flights in April, depending on restrictions.
SALE FARES
Promotional fares for Virgin’s new Gold Coast flights starting from $79 one way are now on sale until midnight October 15, unless sold out prior.
Visit Virgin Australia’s website for more information and to book.
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