Bonza’s first flight south: Sunshine Coast – Avalon

Bonza has touched down in Victoria for the first time, continuing to make it’s own history as an independent, budget carrier.

The countries newest airline flew from the Sunshine Coast to Melbourne’s Avalon Airport on 21 February before making it’s return trip the same day at 3pm.

The historic flight marked the airline’s first commercial flight to a Victorian destination and the third route launched as the low-cost carrier continues its journey of connecting more Australians than ever before.

Later this week, Bonza will go on sale with its Melbourne base which includes an additional 12 routes to the 15 that are currently on sale via the Fly Bonza app.

“Today is a significant milestone as we get wheels up into Victoria for the first time. CEO, Bonza, Tim Jordan, said.

“South East Queenslanders can now fly direct to Avalon for a wide range of holiday experiences in Melbourne, Geelong, the Surf Coast and the Great Ocean Road.

“Likewise, Victorians can now fly direct from Avalon to the Sunshine Coast to visit loved ones and take a well earned break.”

Flights between the Sunshine Coast and Avalon went on sale last month for as little as $79 per person one way. Bonza will fly direct between the Sunshine Coast and Avalon three times per week with flights available to book on the Fly Bonza app, or with a registered travel agent, until late October 2023.

The Sunshine Coast – Bonza’s hub (iStock -SaintMPhotos)

Avalon Airport CEO Tony Brun said connecting the Sunshine Coast and Avalon would reap benefits for travellers from greater Melbourne, Geelong and surrounding regions.

“We are thrilled to partner with Bonza and host the very first flights into Victoria.

“The route between Sunshine Coast and Melbourne (Avalon) is very popular and is fantastic for Victoria.

“This launch today provides more choice, competition and opportunities for travellers to enjoy more of this great country.

“We are proud to make flying easier and accessible for keen travellers! Brun said.

“The Sunshine Coast is a highly sought after holiday destination for Victorians, and being able to fly directly out of Avalon will make travel so much easier for people who live in Greater Melbourne,” CEO, Sunshine Coast Airport, Andrew Brodie, said.

“Similarly, people who have friends or family in Victoria, now have greater options for travel as Bonza will be operating three flights to Avalon a week.

“This new route is also great news for Sunshine Coast locals who love their sport events or who want to spend time enjoying the incredible foodie culture that Melbourne is known for.”

Jordan thanked both airports for their partnership in the lead up to today’s milestone.

“Today is a result of a strong partnership with Sunshine Coast Airport, Avalon Airport and its owners Linfox. We especially want to thank their teams for working hard to make today a reality,” he said.

Travellers are encouraged to download the Fly Bonza app which is the only place to book direct.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

Andrew Brodie avalon Bonza Airlines sunshine coast Tim Jordan Tony Brun