The airline launched service between Mildura and Sydney today, with the reopening of the New South Wales border with Victoria. The route was originally scheduled to start last March but was delayed due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
On Monday (November 23, 2020), Qantas launched a new route between Mildura and Sydney after the reopening of the New South Wales (NSW) border with Victoria. The carrier originally planned to start operating the route last March, but the launch was delayed due to COVID-19 and the associated travel restrictions. The first flight, QF1402 departed Mildura this afternoon and the occasion was marked by celebrations at the gate and a water cannon salute for the aircraft on the tarmac. The route will be operated four times weekly and serviced with a 50-seat Bombardier Q300 aircraft, providing 20,000 seats on the route annually. With the introduction of the route, Qantas is now the only carrier offering a direct connection between Sydney and Mildura, saving travelers two hours versus flying via Melbourne. Speaking at Monday’s launch, Qantas’ Executive Manager – Sales and Distribution, Igor Kwiatkowski, said,
“As Australia’s largest regional airline, we have an important role to play in keeping regions connected and driving tourism. We’re responding to demand from local businesses and industry leaders to connect the Sunraysia region to Sydney once again. Mildura has a rich history and is home to some of Australia’s finest produce and wineries and we know it will be a popular destination for holidaymakers as well. Together with the Mildura Rural City Council we’ll be promoting greater Mildura to travellers across Australia as a great destination to visit. While our business has been challenged like never before by COVID-19, the launch of these flights is another step towards a recovery and getting more of our people back flying again.”
In addition to the new Sydney-Mildura route, QantasLink serves Mildura from Melbourne. Since the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic, Qantas has introduced a comprehensive health and safety program called ‘Fly Well’ to ensure the wellbeing of guests and team members throughout their journey. Additionally, the airline has implemented a new level of booking flexibility, so customers can plan their travel with confidence.
Source: Qantas