Bonza, the Australian airline that launched in January 2022, has added Cairns to its network with a new direct service from the Sunshine Coast. The inaugural flight took off recently, as Bonza celebrates reaching 100,000 seats sold on its Fly Bonza app. The launch of the Cairns service coincides with Bonza’s Melbourne base launch and the opening of five more routes this week.
The new service has been popular, especially for the upcoming school holidays and winter sun escapes. CEO Tim Jordan stated that the people of Sunshine Coast, Gympie, Moreton Bay, and Brisbane are booking direct flights to Cairns for as low as $79 per person one way. For less than a tank of fuel, travellers can explore the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, making the new route a game-changer for tourism in both regions.
Upon arrival at Cairns Airport, Bonza’s customers were treated to a reef and rainforest-inspired celebration, including local food and drinks and fun pops of purple. Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker remarked that linking two of Queensland’s most iconic tourism destinations is a great way for Bonza to launch its Cairns services. The new Bonza routes will add thousands of additional seats to the Cairns market per week once the schedule is ramped up.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Mark Olsen said that Tropical North Queensland is set to welcome visitors from the Sunshine Coast. He is looking forward to welcoming new and repeat visitors from the fast-growing communities within easy reach of the Sunshine Coast airport when Bonza touches down in Cairns for the first time.
Bonza’s Sunshine Coast to Cairns flights operate five times a week, including a Friday to Monday option for Southeast Queenslanders wanting a weekend away. On Wednesday, the airline will introduce two flights per week between Cairns and Mackay, and on Friday, a twice-weekly service between Cairns and Rockhampton will commence.
In conclusion, the new direct service from the Sunshine Coast to Cairns by Bonza has opened a new gateway for tourism between two of Queensland’s most iconic destinations. The affordable fare and ease of travel will encourage more visitors to explore both regions, boosting the local economies. Travellers are encouraged to download the Fly Bonza app to book direct flights.
Written by: Anne Keam