Summer flights expand

Virgin adds direct routes between Hobart and non-lockdown states

TRAVELLING from Tasmania to Perth or Adelaide continues to become easier with more direct flights being made available in time for summer holidays.

Virgin Australia on Tuesday announced an expansion of its domestic network, adding two additional routes between Hobart and Adelaide, and Hobart and Perth. Cheap flights are also available for those who get in quick with the airline offering one-way economy fares from $49 between Hobart and Adelaide, and $149 between Hobart and Perth, until midnight Sunday – or until sold out.

Virgin Australia said the two new Hobart routes and two Launceston routes launched earlier this month would see an additional 18,000 seats a month added to the airlines travel network.

Hobart Airport chief executive Norris Carter, welcomed the news, saying he was convinced the flights would “bring thousands of friends, family and visitors into Tasmania”.

Virgin Australia group chief strategy and transformation officer Alistair Hartley said he hoped the new flights would reconnect more Australians in time for Christmas.

“Virgin Australia continues to look for new ways to expand our network schedule to create more travel opportunities where free movement is permitted,” Mr Hartley said.

The new routes include three each-way service between Adelaide and Hobart flying Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday starting October 22.

Three services a week between Hobart and Perth will also kick off on October 22, operating Monday, Friday and Sunday.

Covid-19 travel requirements for those planning on entering Tasmania can be found at coronavirus.tas.gov.au.