Qantas turns to Orange

QANTAS Group has proclaimed The Flying Kangaroo will arrive in Orange, with the airline this morning announcing new services to the town beginning 01 May.

The new route, to be served by QantasLink 11 times weekly, has launched with special fares of $129 for travel until 25 Oct, and will also see Orange residents able to access free membership to Qantas’ Frequent Flyer program until 28 Feb.

The flag-carrier announced it was bringing “much-needed competition to the skies of Central West NSW,” just over a week after rural airline Regional Express (Rex) exited Ballina and Kangaroo Island, accusing QF of depleting its ability to offer a sustainable alternative for regional communities.

“Orange residents and visitors will benefit from competitive fares and more flight options as well as the onward connectivity through Qantas’ domestic and international network and partner airlines like Emirates and American Airlines,” Qantas said.

QantasLink CEO John Gissing hailed the many benefits of its presence in the region, saying “as part of our commitment to the route we will also promote Orange on a global stage, across Qantas’ domestic and international markets and to the airline’s 13 million frequent flyers.

“These additional flights will make it easier for Sydney residents and domestic and international tourists to discover one of NSW’s most beautiful regions, with its world-class restaurants and wineries.”

Orange Mayor Reg Kidd also welcomed the announcement, saying, “Orange’s passenger numbers have been growing steadily in recent years as the regional economy has expanded, using the airport as a key connection”.