Qantas and Jetstar add flights to Brisbane in record week of growth for airport

Qantas is expanding its presence in Launceston by launching flights to Brisbane for the first time starting 1 November.

The airline will operate three return weekly services up until the end of March 2022 using QantasLink’s Boeing 717 aircraft. It will look to add more flights beyond March if there is demand.

In a record week of route growth for the airport, Jetstar also announced it will add two additional weekly return services to and from Brisbane starting in November.

Qantas Group’s announcement follows Virgin Australia’s recent commitment to increase capacity on the Brisbane route.

Earlier this week Virgin also launched direct flights to Adelaide and announced a new direct Perth service which will commence in November.

Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said Qantas’ commitment solidifies the airport’s position as one of the fastest growing regional ports in the country.

“We’re experiencing unprecedented domestic growth as airlines pivot their operations to new leisure markets in response to the pandemic,” he said.

“Over the past seven days we’ve added more than 5,0o0 weekly seats combined – covering new and upcoming services – and it’s no surprise given the region’s huge tourism appeal.

“This is even greater recognition into the strength of our city’s world-class hospitality, whisky, gin and wine industries supported by high-profile outdoor attractions and events. The increase in visitation is bound to support Tasmania’s tourism sector and the broader economy as we expand under the Launceston City Deal.

“The Launceston-Brisbane city-pair is currently our most popular, averaging 80 per cent load factors for each flight. Numbers are only tipped to grow as traveller confidence returns and vaccination rates increase across the country.

“We’re pleased the Qantas Group sees such potential in Launceston and the north of the state, and we look forward to welcoming both Qantas and Jetstar’s services over summer.”

Tickets are now on sale for Qantas’ flights and the airline is offering special fares starting from $169 one-way, available for sale until Sunday 12 September, unless sold out prior.