Hunter residents looking for a ‘staycation’ have received a boost after Newcastle Airport confirmed a new destination for domestic jet-setters.
The airport announced a 12-week service to Queensland’s iconic Sunshine Coast this morning.
Chief executive Peter Cock said the new route came on the back of strong demand for domestic holidaying from Novocastrians in the wake of an easing of COVID-19-imposed travel restrictions.
“Forecasts suggest our region is outperforming most others in terms of air travel and we hope to see this demand continue to climb in the lead up to Christmas,” Dr Cock said.
“We have found ourselves in several discussions regarding new route opportunities in the last couple of months and it’s no surprise the Sunshine Coast has emerged as a new service from Newcastle.
“Equally, this new service offers a chance for our region to showcase its wares to Queenslanders.
“Greater access to the vibrant city of Newcastle, beautiful coastline of Port Stephens and the amazing food and wine of the Hunter Valley is a great result for the local visitor economy.”
Fly Pelican will operate the service, which will run three return flights per week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
The 19-seater flights will begin operation on Monday 4 January.
Fly Pelican Airlines chief executive Marty Hawley expressed his excitement regarding the new opportunity for the Hunter’s travellers and hoped the new flights would develop into a year-round offering.
“It is really exciting to launch this new service, linking Newcastle directly to the Sunshine Coast for the first time ever,” he said.
“We look forward to welcoming [Hunter] residents on board our aircraft, featuring our newly refurbished cabins with snacks and refreshments provided, which is all part of the Fly Pelican experience.
“We encourage locals at both ends to explore a beautiful part of Australia, support the service, and help make it a long-term proposition.”
For more information regarding bookings, visit Fly Pelican’s website.
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