Tamworth’s popularity has increased threefold in the past week, with three commercial carriers now flying into the region.

In a move that has been applauded by Inland NSW, Virgin Australia is zooming in with six return flights a week between Sydney and Tamworth, while Brisbane-based carrier JETGO will commence three flights a week from March 2, doubling from April 6.

And of course QantasLink continues to fly its daily services between Sydney and Tamworth.

Between the three carriers, the amount of flights in and out of the city will jump to 96 flights per week, bringing a mix of leisure and corporate travellers with it.

Inland NSW CEO Graham Perry noted the new services will provide consumers with greater choice through increased competition and a new route option.

“The announcements of these new services clearly cement Tamworth’s position as a thriving commercial hub and a destination for both domestic and an increasing number of international tourists,” Perry said.

“It also highlights the potential and benefit of increasing air capacity for targeted regional routes, which is very important for growing regional centres.

“Coupled with the NSW Government’s announcement of increased funding for the business conferencing and events market, these announcements are good news for Tamworth and the broader New England region, which will benefit from the improved air capacity.

“Tamworth currently has over 670 businesses directly involved in the tourism sector, and periods when demand outstrip supply; this increased capacity will help with peak periods, such as the 10 day Tamworth Country Music Festival which draws visitors from all over the country and internationally.”

In February, Tamworth Regional Council also approved over $500,000 in modifications to Tamworth Regional Airport to allow it to cater for increased passenger services.