Bonza Airlines launches Mackay-Cairns route with $49 tickets

Queensland’s ‘far north is now the ‘near north’ for Mackay residents, with $49 flights to take you direct into a tropical wonderland.

Queensland’s far north tropical paradise is now open to Mackay residents for just $49, with Bonza Airlines flying direct into Cairns from today.

The one hour and 20 minute flight means travellers don’t have to spend nine hours on the Bruce Highway to enjoy Cairns’ splendours, including its famed esplanade, aquarium and rainforests.

North Queensland Airports Group CEO Richard Barker said the route opened up a range of new leisure and business opportunities.

“Cairns is the home for many fly in, fly out mine workers who travel to Mackay and onto the Bowen Basin,” he said.

“I am sure the flights will be welcomed by them.

“And both regions offer spectacular holidays in paradise – both Cairns and Mackay are packed with natural gems, unique wildlife, art, culture and dining experiences, quality sporting events and fishing adventures.”

The rainforest canopy full of lush green foliage at the Blue Arrow walking and hiking trail in the Mt Whitfield conservation park in Edge Hill, near the Cairns CBD. Picture: Brendan Radke

The low-cost budget airline’s biweekly Mackay-Cairns service follows its maiden Sunshine-Coast-Mackay flight on February 14, which saw about 150 passengers descend into Mackay Airport to be greeted by Mackay Cutters rugby players in purple budgie smugglers.

A Melbourne-Mackay route is expected to open up in May.

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In February, Bonza CEO Tim Jordan said the ultra low fares could continue.

“We are about connecting communities and giving Aussies the chance to fly directly to see loved ones where before it was either too expensive or took too long,” he said.

“We are also about making it affordable to see more of your own backyard and Mackay is the perfect example of a destination that is relatively undiscovered.”

Bonza runs off the Fly Bonza app, where passengers can book flights, manage their bookings, check in and order in-flight food.