First direct flight from Melbourne lands in Hervey Bay

After months of waiting, the first flight from Melbourne to Hervey Bay has finally arrived. PHOTOS, VIDEO

A momentous day has arrived for the Fraser Coast, with the first direct flight from Melbourne landing in Hervey Bay.

The first flight safely touched down at Hervey Bay Airport about 2.55pm, much to the delight of those gathered, which included politicians through to travel writers.

Deputy Mayor Paul Truscott was on hand to welcome the first arrivals.

“It’s absolutely wonderful to welcome Jetstar direct to Melbourne flights from Hervey Bay,” he said.

“The first flights in and out were both full which is fantastic to see.

“The community has been wanting to see this for a long time and now it’s a reality which is amazing.

“We want to encourage people to book flights and use the new connection.

“Visit Melbourne family and friends and encourage them to come up and see how great the Fraser Coast is.

“I want to take the opportunity to thank Jetstar for their commitment to the region and all the people involved in making this happen as it’s a long and big process to get this to come together and thank you for your efforts.”

The first direct flight from Melbourne arriving at Hervey Bay Airport.

Councillor Denis Chapman said it was a great day for people from that area who now live on the Fraser Coast.

He said their friends and families could now fly directly from Melbourne, making it easier for people to connect.

Mr Chapman said the new flights would help put the region on the map.

It comes six months after Jetstar announced it would introduce the new service.

The three-per-week service will carry up to 1100 customers each week between the two cities.

A huge sale held when the new service was announced ensured initial flights would be sold out.

Jetstar operates four flights per week between Sydney and Hervey Bay, and once the Melbourne service begins, it will carry up to 3800 customers each week across the two routes.

“I think it’s fantastic for our community to have this direct connection to Melbourne,” Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said.

The first Melbourne arrivals at Hervey Bay airport.

On Wednesday Mr Seymour said it would keep families connected as well as bringing in tourists.

“These flights will mean more grandparent spending time with their children and grandchildren,” he said.

“From what I understand Jetstar are happy with the bookings.

“I think they will be successful and very, very popular.

Mr Seymour said with Bonza falling over it was also a positive step for Queensland to see new flights going ahead.

The first flight from Melbourne has arrived in Hervey Bay.

Jetstar executive manager Jenn Armor said at the time Hervey Bay was a largely undiscovered holiday destination for Victorians given there had never been direct flights.

“We know Melburnians love exploring Queensland, and with the strong demand we’ve seen for Hervey Bay out of Sydney, we’re expecting these new flights to be extremely popular,” she said.

“Often referred to as the whale watching capital of the world, the Fraser Coast region offers beautiful beaches with calm waters, perfect for family getaways.

“We’re excited to be able to provide a low-cost connection to this beautiful region in time for the mid-year school holidays, which in turn will boost local jobs and support tourism.”

In October 2017, Jetgo cancelled its plans to bring flights between Melbourne and Hervey Bay.

The announcement was made after low booking numbers plagued the service ahead of a planned launch on November 3, 2017.

Only one person booked on the first flight from Hervey Bay to Melbourne.

The Jetstar flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays between the two cities.

Originally published as First direct flight from Melbourne lands in Hervey Bay