Summer just got better for Aussie adventurers who now have access to low-cost direct air travel connecting the Red Centre to Melbourne (Tullamarine) as Bonza debuts its Alice Springs service.

Image credit: Tourism NT

The new route will see increased tourism to the NT gateway bringing more than 38‚000 seats to the region with Bonza fares starting from just $139 per person (one way). The low-cost carrier’s Melbourne to Alice Springs route will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Bonza CEO Tim Jordan said the new route reinforces Bonza’s mission to make air travel affordable for the many‚ not the few whilst stimulating the domestic tourism market.

“Bonza has had more than 500‚000 customers fly with us since we launched earlier this year‚ many of whom are first-time travellers‚ infrequent fliers and returning customers who are now able to connect directly to new and previously unserved or underserved destinations across our backyard because of our low-cost airfares‚” said Jordan.

Pictured: Bonza CEO Tim Jordan

“Adding Alice Springs to our map means we are taking another giant leap in our mission to make air travel accessible to the many‚ not the few. Territorians and Melburnians can discover all the contrasting wonders both cities have to offer as well as significantly boosting their respective tourism economies.”

Northern Territory Minister for Tourism Joel Bowden welcomed the new route.

“Today is an exciting day for Territorians‚ growing up in Alice I know how important connectivity and affordability is for those wanting to see loved ones. We are thrilled to welcome Bonza to Alice Springs with the inaugural flight from Melbourne today‚” said Minister Bowden.

“This significant development for the people of Alice Springs was only made possible through our recently launched Territory Aviation Attraction Scheme‚ which strongly underpins the Government’s commitment to accessible and affordable air services.”

The addition of the Melbourne to Alice Springs service brings the total number of routes from Victoria’s capital to 11‚ seven of which are not served by any other carrier and nine of which have no low-cost carrier on them.

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said the new direct flights would help increase the number of Victorians visiting the Northern Territory‚ while also making Melbourne’s numerous attractions more accessible for thousands of people.

“We’re pleased to see Bonza expanding its footprint from Melbourne and providing a new opportunity for connection with the Northern Territory‚” said Argus.

“We know that competition is good for consumers because it pushes ticket prices down‚ and the extra capacity Bonza is bringing to this route will allow more people to visit their family and friends or explore our incredible country.

Airport Development Group CEO‚ Tony Edmondstone said it’s a great day seeing more Bonza services connecting the East Coast to the Territory.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bonza to the Red Centre. Airport Development Group has a long-term vision for the Territory tourism industry and this is another significant step forward in pushing Central Australia forward as a key destination for travellers‚” said Edmonstone.

Travellers are encouraged to download the Fly Bonza app which is the only place to book direct.