Bonza’s debut into Tasmania starts today with the first flight from the Gold Coast to Launceston
‘Gateway to Tasmania’: Bonza gets wheels up Gold Coast to Launceston
Tue 21 November 2023
Bonza’s debut into Tasmania starts today with the first flight from the Gold Coast to Launceston. The three times weekly service is a welcome boost for tourism in both directions as Bonza continues its mission of stimulating new domestic tourism markets.
The new service will operate on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays with fares starting from just $79 per person (one way).
“As Bonza’s gateway to Tasmania, we know there’s strong demand for locals on the Gold Coast, Northern NSW and South Brisbane to fly direct to Launceston. In fact, the route is proving one of our most popular from the Gold Coast so far,” said Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza.
“Travelling with us today are families and friends reconnecting with loved ones, holiday makers and first time flyers who no longer need to drive to a major city airport or break the bank to get here.
“Today is also a big win for tourism operators on the Gold Coast, Tweed and Tasmania as we continue to stimulate new markets. Forward bookings over summer and through to early May are looking strong. Within days, we will be releasing more flights for sale so travellers can book flights on the Gold Coast to Launceston route up until September 2024,” said Jordan.
Premier and Minister for Tourism, Jeremy Rockliff welcomed the first flight as it landed at Launceston Airport.
“This tri-weekly service will provide a fantastic boost to the Tasmanian economy and tourism industry,” Premier Rockliff said.
“Queenslanders will be able to enjoy everything our beautiful island state has to offer in the summer and throughout our cooler, pristine months, further supporting Tasmania’s growing visitor economy and the fantastic small businesses within it.
“This is an exciting day for Northern Tasmanians, for businesses and for visitors to our State.”
There to welcome Bonza’s first customers to Launnie was Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare, who said the city was the obvious Tasmanian launchpad.
“As a UNESCO city of gastronomy, Launceston boasts great food and wine and is one of the best city break destinations in Australia,” he said.
“We’re also the gateway to many of Tasmania’s incredible natural wonders, such as Cradle Mountain, and these new flights will make it easier for thousands more people to explore everything we have to offer.”
Queensland Airports Limited Chief Executive Officer Amelia Evans said Gold Coast Airport was proud to partner with Bonza to launch the airline’s first Tasmanian connection.
“This is a valuable connection for both Tasmanians and Gold Coasters as it provides a direct link that's not currently serviced by any other airline adding 1,100 seats between the Gold Coast and Launceston each week just in time for the summer holidays,” said Evans.
Travellers are encouraged to download the Fly Bonza app which is the only place to book direct.
Bonza is Australia’s new and only independent low-cost airline enabling Australians to explore more of their own backyard for less. Bonza’s current route map includes 3 bases and 38 routes to 21 destinations with a focus on the unserved and underserved markets. Bonza is the first airline globally to take an app-first approach with the only place to book direct being the Fly Bonza app. The airline was also the first globally to introduce a gender-neutral ‘wear it your way’ uniform including custom Bonza sneakers. Bonza’s all Aussie menu is the first onboard menu to be 100% sourced locally and is ordered on-demand from the Fly Bonza app meaning there are no trolleys to be seen onboard.
