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Jetstar will launch flights from Melbourne (Tullamarine) to Hervey Bay, on Queensland’s Fraser Coast, next June.
The return A320 service will operate three times per week, on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, adding around 1,100 seats per week between the two cities. When combined with Jetstar’s existing Sydney route, the airline will carry up to 3,800 passengers per week to and from Hervey Bay.
This is the first time an airline will fly directly between Melbourne and Hervey Bay. Now-defunct regional airline JETGO had planned a service in 2017 between Hervey Bay and Essendon Airport, which was cancelled due to low demand.
“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,” said Jetstar’s executive manager, customer, Jenn Armor.
“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.”
George Seymour, Mayor of Fraser Coast Regional Council, said the commencement of direct flights to Melbourne is good news for the region, which has grown popular with retirees.
“Many residents have moved to Hervey Bay from Victoria, and these direct flights will help families and friends stay connected. It will mean grandparents seeing their grandchildren more often, for example,” he said.
“These flights will also be a huge boost for our tourism industry. It will open the door for more people to discover the world heritage listed K’gari (Fraser Island), the best whale watching in the world and all the other fantastic attractions and experiences we have here on the Fraser Coast.”
The service is set to commence on 20 June 2024.
