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Link Airways has unveiled a new year-round service connecting Launceston to Canberra.
The new service is set to operate four times a week from 6 May on Link’s Saab 340B aircraft, adding 14,000 seats per year. It will be the first time Link Airways flies directly out of Launceston, connecting over 90,000 people from Tasmania’s second largest city to the nation’s capital.
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“It strengthens connectivity between the two regions and benefits business, government and leisure travellers alike,” said Jeff Boyd, Manager of Network Strategy at Link Airways.
“It also creates new convenient connections for travellers through Link Airway’s codeshare partnership with Virgin Australia, providing great connectivity thanks to Virgin Australia’s expansive route network.”
The service has been financially supported through the Tasmanian Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund, which was launched last year to boost tourism and economic growth in the state. It is set to provide a range of opportunities and connections for the two cities, said Launceston Airport CEO Katie Cooper.
“Whether it be a direct school trip to Canberra or a hiking holiday of a lifetime, this service will be popular with travellers from both Launceston and Canberra,” she said.
“Starting with a year-round four day a week service shows the level of commitment that Link has to the Launceston market.
“I’d like to thank the state government for its support in bringing this service to Launceston, which will help bring hundreds of extra visitors to our state each week, supporting Tasmania’s world-class tourism, dining and hospitality venues.”
The Tasmanian Government has welcomed the move, with Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events Jane Howlett saying aviation access and capacity are “vital to Tasmania”.
“This service opens the door to a significant catchment from ACT and surrounding regions who have shown strong appetite for what Northern Tasmania has to offer, from our UNESCO City of Gastronomy status in Launceston, the Tamar Valley wine region, proximity to wilderness experiences and rich history and heritage.
“Tasmania’s tourism brand is strong, and it is important that we continue this momentum as competition in the tourism market intensifies. This direct flight increases our capacity in shoulder and winter months, perfectly aligning with our Off Season campaign designed to drive visitation during May through August.
“It also comes off the back of our announcement to support the delivery of a new, purpose-built convention centre in Launceston.”
Around 60,000 travellers from the ACT and surrounding areas visited Tasmania last year.
