Virgin Australia cuts low season direct flights between Brisbane and Red Centre
Just a fortnight after spruiking sale flights, Virgin Australia has axed low season direct flights between Brisbane and Uluru, and Brisbane and Alice Springs.
Northern Territory
Don't miss out on the headlines from Northern Territory. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Tourism in Alice Springs and Uluru will cop an end of year hit with Virgin Australia axing direct flights between Brisbane and the Red Centre during the Territory’s low season period.
Just a fortnight after spruiking sale flights – including $99 fares between Brisbane and Uluru – Virgin has announced that the Uluru route will not operate between November 24 and late March next year.
The Uluru-Brisbane route was launched in June last year.
The airline’s Brisbane-Alice Springs route will also be cut between October 28 and late March.
In a statement, Virgin Australia said the “difficult decision” was driven by several factors, in particular low demand and rising costs.
“We understand this decision will be disappointing for guests and locals who are serviced by these routes, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience,” a spokesman said.
“We remain committed to regularly reassessing capacity decisions should circumstances change.”
It said anyone who had booked on axed flights would be contacted directly by Virgin Australia or their travel provider to “offer alternative arrangements”, or where an alternative was not suitable, offered a full refund.
“We recognise the important role that regional routes play in connecting communities, supporting tourism, and contributing to the economy of the Northern Territory, and will continue to service the Red Centre through our direct Melbourne to Uluru and Adelaide to Alice Springs services year round,” the spokesman said.
The decision to suspend the routes came after an internal review of performance, with the airline redeploying aircraft and resources to routes where passenger demand is stronger.
Virgin Australia has been consulting with the Alice Springs airport about operational costs.
‘Win-win’ agreement signed between NT and international neighbour
The NT government has firmed up its relations with the Territory’s closest international neighbour through a new health partnership. Read the details.
NT’s best get the chance to take on Australian rising star
Darwinites will get to test their abilities against one of the best in the country with an Australian Jackaroo set to take on the Darwin Bowls Club Carnival.