Yesterday was the first flight in 15 years from Sydney to Ballina. Qantas Airline announced that both Ballina and Orange from Sydney will be in operation. Orange will commence on 20th July 2020. Both of these services were scheduled for early 2020 but have been delayed because of Coronavirus.
QantasLink CEO John Gissing said, “As the national carrier, we have an important role to play in driving tourism and reviving the industry that has been devastated by COVID-19”. He went on to say “These additional flights are coming at the right time for families who’ve spent much of the recent months confined to their homes and are looking forward to getting out and exploring their own state. While our business has been challenged like never before by COVID-19, the launch of these flights is another step towards recovery and getting more of our people back flying again”.
QantasLink flights will operate daily return flights. The Q400 aircraft will be used between Sydney and Ballina. Jetstar will continue their flights as well.
When the Orange flights begin they will operate 3 weekly services, with an increase later in the year.
Qantas is giving its customers greater flexibility when booking. You can change the date of your flights once without paying a fee. (Any fare increase will be covered by customers.