Townsville airport asks people to be patient as flights ramp up

Qantas and Virgin have boosted flights to Townsville from Sydney and Melbourne.

Townsville airport is busy with airlines boosting flights from Sydney and Melbourne in response to the opening of the State’s border and annual family reunions for Christmas.

Townsville Airport General Manager Brendan Cook said the routes were now well supported by the airlines with three carriers offering flights on both – ensuring more options for travellers and better priced tickets.

“With these new services, flights between Townsville and Sydney will increase almost 30 per cent compared to pre-Covid-19 levels and almost doubled on Townsville-Melbourne,” Mr Cook said.

“This is good news for travellers in North Queensland and the southern states and will be welcomed by North Queensland tourism operators.”

Flights have been boosted at Townsville Airport. Picture: Evan Morgan

Qantas started flying between Townsville and Melbourne and Sydney four times per week on Friday.

On Saturday, Virgin Australia starts flying between Townsville and Sydney and

Melbourne three times per week.

Mr Cook said as the airport became busier, it was important passengers were patient and

continued with Covid-19 safe practices.

The wearing of face masks remains mandatory in airports.

“We thank everyone for their help and understanding during this period when so many friends and family will be reuniting after a long separation,” Mr Cook said.

“Signage is in place throughout the terminal to encourage the wearing of face masks, checking in, physical distancing and increased hygiene practices.”

Mr Cook said work had continued on the $15.5 million Townsville Airport upgrades while the airport had been quieter and these projects would be complete next year.

Last month, QantasLink announced five additional Cairns-Townsville services to a total of 32 return flights a week and six additional Townsville-Mackay services to a total of 21 return flights a week.

Originally published as Townsville airport asks people to be patient as flights ramp up