Bonza, Australia’s only independent low-cost carrier, together with Mackay Airport have announced a historic partnership that will see seven new flights each week on three new routes.
The news is part of the largest announcement in Australia’s aviation history as Bonza reveals its inaugural route map, airport bases, head office location and all-digital approach.
From mid 2022, subject to regulatory approval, Bonza will operate three flights per week from Mackay to the Sunshine Coast, twice weekly to both Melbourne and Cairns. All routes are new and currently unserviced.
Garry Porter, North Queensland Airports Chief Operating Officer said: “At a time when we are seeing more people coming to the Mackay Isaac region for leisure and to visit friends and relatives, it is great timing to be able to add to the network of destinations that will be linked directly to Mackay Airport.
“It's exciting that Mackay will once again have direct services to Melbourne as well as to the Sunshine Coast and Cairns. The new Bonza services will provide over 2,500 additional weekly seats to the Mackay market.”
In October last year, Bonza announced it was taking to Australian skies and promised not to fly the golden triangle between Australia’s three largest cities. Today, they deliver on that promise by giving more choice to people living in regional areas, says Carly Povey, Chief Commercial Officer at Bonza.
“With four new routes directly in and out of Mackay Airport, we will be delivering on our promise to give Aussies more options for leisure travel. Not only will the flights open up new markets for the region’s tourism industry, locals will have the opportunity to explore their own backyard with ultra-low fares,” added Povey.
Povey also shared Bonza’s decision to go paperless with the launch of its own app saying its commitment to technology is part of a broader focus on customer experience and sustainability: “We encourage everyone to download the new app to be the first in the know for flights going on sale, fare sales, destination news and travel tips. We’re also offering, via the app, the chance to win flights”.
Once all functions are added to the app in the coming weeks, it will be where Aussies can plan, book and manage their bookings. It’ll also be where travellers can check in and access their boarding passes-eliminating the need for paper passes at the airport. Once onboard, the retail offering, travel information and much more will be available exclusively through the app.
Australians are encouraged to download the app “Fly Bonza” on the Apple App Store or Google Play now and keep an eye out for updates as new functions are added. Flights are due to go on sale within the next eight weeks, pending regulatory approval.
