Published on Wednesday, 6 April 2022 at 6:00:00 AM
This morning’s arrival of the first direct regular passenger flight from Melbourne to Busselton marked the beginning of a new era for the Busselton Margaret River Airport.
Passengers from Melbourne on Jetstar flight touched down this morning. Busselton Margaret River Airport welcoming passengers ready to take full advantage of the region’s offerings.
Busselton to Melbourne passengers keen to visit family and friends, while taking opportunity to visit the premier event capital of Australia – footy will no doubt be on the top of the to-do list! Passengers were enthusiastic about the service and the new direct route connecting us to the east coast.
Commencement of the new route was announced back in October 2019 and was due to start in March 2020. City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley thanked all those who’ve helped make today’s inaugural flights a reality. “It has not been easy, with the launch of direct flights postponed several times due to COVID, causing tourism and travel operators to face what’s been some tough challenges.”
“We’ve been working toward this end since 2010, when planning for the airport upgrade first commenced, but I have to say it has been well worth the wait!”
Thank you to Jetstar and the Qantas Group for recognising the regions potential. Jetstar’s commitment to the new service and what will be known as one of its longest launches in history, just over two years, is to be commended.”
“This is an important milestone for the City of Busselton and the State. I acknowledge the support we’ve received from the Australian Government and the WA State Government through the Department of Transport, Tourism WA and the South West Development Commission. We are also thankful for the support we’ve received from neighbouring Local Governments. I commend the City’s Airport Development Team who, under the guidance of CEO Mike Archer and Director of Community and Commercial Services Naomi Searle, have worked so hard to see this ambitious vision become reality.”
“We are on the cusp of something very exciting, placing our region on the national and international tourism stage. The new service will also provide opportunity for freight services.”
The City remains confident that this first regular service is just the beginning for the Busselton Margaret River Airport. In the future it is hoped to attract more providers to the airport offering flights to a range of domestic and international destinations.”
Jetstar will operate an A320 aircraft (seating 186 passengers) three times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, flying directly from Busselton Margaret River Airport to Melbourne’s Tullamarine airport. Visit www.Jetstar.com.au for more information on flights and ticket sales.
Objectives outlined in this statement are aligned with the City of Busselton’s Strategic Community Plan (2021 - 2031) Key Themes, Opportunity: A vibrant City with diverse opportunities and a prosperous economy.
Media Release ends. Media enquiries can be directed to media@busselton.wa.gov.au.
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