21 April 2023
Coffs Harbour region to benefit as direct flights to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast commence
In another industry first Bonza took to the skies yesterday from its home base at Sunshine Coast Airport heading for Coffs Harbour, the home of the Big Banana, marking the start of regular flights between two of Australia’s most iconic holiday destinations.
Yesterday’s flight will be the first inaugural flight between the Sunshine Coast and Coffs Harbour and is one of 13 destinations Bonza will service from their home base on the Sunshine Coast.
On hand to welcome the inaugural flight was Coffs Harbour Airport General Manager, Frank Mondello, who said, “This direct route is a first between the two regions and is a major milestone that will have far reaching economic benefits to the Mid North Coast of NSW.
“Not only will there be two flights a week, but passengers can travel from as little as $49 one way per person with some celebratory fares from $29, and that will make air travel affordable, accessible and extremely attractive for anyone wanting to fly between Coffs Harbour and the Sunshine Coast.
“With more than 38,000 seats available between the two destinations, this new route will increase the passenger numbers arriving into Coffs Harbour Airport allowing people to travel quickly and easily for business or pleasure, and will offer a wonderful holiday alternative for travellers wanting to explore the beautiful Coffs Coast region.
“Coffs Harbour welcomes in excess of 1.6 million visitors each year and we believe we will see these numbers increase now that getting here is a whole lot easier for travellers from the Sunshine Coast who no longer need to take the five hour drive. It’s an economic boost for both regions and the impact will be far reaching.
“While we might be known for our iconic Big Banana we are also known for our pristine beaches, laid back lifestyle and incredible variety of nature that includes everything from mountains to rainforests, and we look forward to welcoming visitors on these new Bonza flights,” Mr Mondello said.
In 2021 the Coffs Coast was globally recognised as an ECO Destination, celebrated for its diverse cultural community, committed to balancing sustainable practices with first-class, nature-based visitor experiences. And given both Sunshine Coast Airport and Bonza’s commitment to sustainability, this new route is sure to become a favourite among travellers wanting to minimise their carbon footprint.
Bonza CEO, Tim Jordan who greeted the flight from Coffs Harbour Airport said, “Aussies can ditch the 11-hour round car trip for less than a tank of fuel as we continue to give the many, and not the few, access to air travel,” said Jordan.
“The two big quirky landmarks are not the only draw cards with both regions sharing an abundance of beaches, treetop adventures and wildlife wonders. Our schedule means you can take a long weekend in either destination and explore something new.”
With Bonza now calling the Sunshine Coast home, Coffs Coast will be connected to the growing Bonza network, opening up opportunities for visitors from 12 other destinations to travel through the Sunshine Coast and experience everything Coffs Harbour has to offer.
City of Coffs Harbour General Manager Natalia Cowley said, “With this new direct link to the Sunshine Coast and beyond, we’re potentially welcoming up to half a million new visitors to the Coffs Coast every year, which is going to be great for tourism and fantastic for our community.
Key Facts
- Start Date: Thursday 20 April 2023
- Frequency: Twice weekly – Thursday and Sunday.
- Fares: from $49 one-way per person with some celebratory fares from $29.
- Bookings: Via the Fly Bonza app or through and selected travel agents. Go to flybonza.com for more information.
About Coffs Harbour Airport
Coffs Harbour Airport is one of the busiest regional airports in New South Wales, located just four kilometres south of the city centre. With a catchment area of 150,000 people, the Airport services the sixth fastest growing region in NSW, with more than 270,000 passengers through the terminal in 2022.
The Airport plays an important regional role as an economic enabler, ensuring strong growth continues while supporting the Coffs community reach its full potential as a vibrant regional hub. The Airport is embarking on the development of an Enterprise Park precinct that, when complete, will house a variety of businesses, attract investment and create opportunities that will continue to attract talent to the region.
Coffs Harbour Airport is partnered by four airlines – Qantas, Rex Airlines, Link Airways and Bonza – flying to four destinations.
• Sydney – serviced by Qantas and Rex Airlines.
• Melbourne – serviced by Qantas.
• Brisbane – serviced by Qantas and Link Airways.
• Sunshine Coast – serviced by Bonza.
On 1 June 2021, the operations and management of Coffs Harbour Airport was transferred from Coffs Harbour City Council to Palisade Investment Partners under a long term lease. The 50 year lease (with a 49-year option) sees the establishment of a private company Coffs Harbour Airport Pty Ltd.
The management and operations of Coffs Harbour Airport Pty Ltd is supported by management group, Agilis Airports, which also oversees Sunshine Coast Airport Pty Ltd.
ENDS
For further information:
Media contact: Agilis Airports Corporate Communications Team
communications@agilisairports.com.au
(07) 5373 1901
