Bonza, Australia’s only independent low-cost carrier, together with Townsville Airport have announced a historic partnership that will see nine 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 four flights per week from Townsville to the Sunshine Coast, three per week to Rockhampton and twice weekly to Toowoomba Wellcamp. Sixty seven per cent of routes are new and 100% are not currently serviced by a low-cost carrier.

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills said new flights between Townsville and the Sunshine Coast, Rockhampton and Toowoomba would benefit passengers and the North Queensland tourism industry.

“Having an airline offering ultra-low fares to and from Townsville will be a real positive for travellers,” he said.

“It is encouraging to see Bonza choose Townsville Airport as one of its first ports –it shows the importance of North Queensland and the opportunity this region represents.”

Mr Mills said Townsville Airport was the 11thbusiest airport in Australia prior to COVID-19 and he looked forward to passenger numbers returning to those levels.

“This announcement by Bonza reflects our confidence in future growth for the airport,” he said

.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 Townsville 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.

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