Flight route returns to Tassie after 16 year hiatus

A new direct flight route will return to Tasmania in little over a month after being suspended for almost two decades. WHERE YOU CAN FLY + SPECIAL OFFERS >>

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Qantas has launched a new route between Sydney and Launceston – for the first time since 2004 – in time with easing border restrictions between New South Wales and Tasmania.

Starting on December 4, the airline operate three return services a week with its Boeing 717 aircraft – increasing to four services from the following week until February 1.

This means 900 extra seats on the route each week.

Qantas will also restart flights between Hobart to Sydney, with 11 return services per week starting November 6.

The Qantas Group recently launched Brisbane to Hobart with Qantas and Gold Coast to Hobart with Jetstar.

In total the company will offer more than 125,000 seats between Tasmania and the mainland in December.

Qantas is offering special fares starting from $149 one-way, available for sale until Friday October 30.

Qantas Domestic and International CEO Andrew David said the national carrier, was pleased to bring back the route after a 16 year hiatus, while hinting at permanency.

“We know there is huge pent-up demand for domestic travel with Australians looking for new destinations to explore,” he said.

“We’ll keep a close eye on demand and if it proves successful we will look to extend the service.”

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