Hobart Airport announces 50,000 more passengers between Melbourne and Hobart
Hobart Airport is set to takeoff with 50,000 more seats between Hobart and Melbourne announced on Friday. When you can get onboard:
Tasmania
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Six in every ten visitors to the state come via Hobart, with the airport welcoming more than 2.8 million people every year.
50 per cent of those travellers come from Melbourne which is why Hobart Airport has secured a deal with Jetstar to add 50,000 extra seats.
Hobart Airport CEO Norris Carter said the airport was proud to have secured the deal with the $250,000 Aviation Attraction Fund top-up from the Tasmanian Government.
The Tasmanian Government’s $250,000 Aviation Attraction Fund top-up is part of a $27.8 million Tourism and Hospitality Support package to boost visitation around the state.
“These seats are going to fill up fast with sky-high demand that is set to continue to grow, which is great news for Tasmania’s tourism and hospitality industries,” Mr Carter said.
“The Hobart Airport team is proud to play such a crucial role in growing tourism and investing in it too, from our $200 million terminal expansion to the $130 million runway upgrade.”
Jetstar executive manager Jenn Armor said the extra flights reflect Jetstar’s commitment to Tasmania.
“Jetstar is proud to be the leading carrier to and from Tasmania, and Hobart continues to be a cornerstone of our domestic network.”
Tourism Industry Council Tasmania Amy Hills said it was always positive news for the state’s visitor economy to see more capacity added.
She said the funding was designed to drive more visitors to Tasmania while waiting for the new Spirits to arrive.
“This is an excellent example of Hobart Airport working together with its stakeholders to help benefit Tasmanians and our visitor economy, which in turn increases confidence in our destination as a whole and sets us up for success into the future.”
Ms Hills said it was the perfect time for the announcement with thousands of visitors in the state for Dark Mofo.
“There’s no better time for this announcement to be made than during Dark Mofo when our state is alive with activity.”
Tasmanian Hospitality Association CEO Steve Old was excited by the news and said one in every three passengers flying into Hobart were looking for accommodation.
“This expansion of flights will undoubtedly have an impact on occupancy rates and provide a significant boost to hospitality operators across the state.
“Added capacity will boost not just the tourism sector but also provide a much needed lift to our hospitality industry in what is typically a quieter period.
“More tourism means more foot traffic, which is essential for local venues to thrive and continue providing exceptional experiences.”
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Originally published as Hobart Airport announces 50,000 more passengers between Melbourne and Hobart
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