Bonza direct flights boost Coast, Top End tourism
Budget airline Bonza will fly direct from the Gold Coast to Darwin two times a week in a bid to boost tourism in both regions.
Bonza chief executive Tim Jordan said those travelling to the Top End could buy tickets from $89 per person one way on the new route.
“With school holidays on the horizon, we’re looking forward to seeing our customers surfing on the Goldie or relaxing on a sunset cruise along the Timor Sea,” he said.
“We thank the Northern Territory government for its Territory Aviation Attraction Scheme that will create jobs, boost NT tourism and increase competition in the NT skies, which is a win for all travellers.”
Queensland Airports chief executive Amelia Evans said the new direct route would improve economic, tourism and business opportunities in both the regions.
“The Gold Coast to Darwin route has long been an underserved market, so we are thrilled that Bonza has recognised its potential,” she said.
“This direct service signifies a new era of convenient connectivity for travellers, eliminating the need for transits and more time to enjoy both regions.”
The NT recently partnered with TV personality Abbie Chatfield and Richmond Tigers star Daniel Rioli to show off the hidden gems across the region.
Rioli posted a montage of videos from his recent trip to the NT, which included a helicopter over Kakadu, a yacht trip in Darwin and a flight over to his home town, Tiwi Islands.
“Home is where the heart is,” he posted on Instagram on Monday. “From the Red Centre to Kakadu, Darwin and the Tiwi Island, the NT is a truly different experience.”
The flight sale kicked off from 8am on March 20 and will go until midnight on March 24.
The announcement comes five months after the airline originally announced flights between the two destinations.
The flights were scheduled to run twice weekly but the launch was postponed.