Qantas returns to the Gold Coast
Qantas has resumed flights to the Gold Coast, four years after it last operated to the Queensland destination.
The first flight from Sydney to Gold Coast airport touched down on Sunday morning, marking the start of a new thrice-daily service on the route. Flights will be operated using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
Lyell Strambi, CEO of Qantas Domestic, said the airline’s decision to return to the Gold Coast had proven popular with passengers.
“In the two days after Qantas put this route on sale we sold an unprecedented 24,000 airfares and we have seen continued strong bookings for both premium leisure and business travellers,” Strambi said. “The new services will bring more tourists and business travellers to the region including many from Emirates’ international network, through the proposed global aviation partnership between the two airlines.
“We will be the only domestic airline operating out of the Gold Coast offering a meal and checked-in baggage to all passengers as part of their fare,” he added.
To coincide with the relaunch, Qantas has launched a new club lounge at Gold Coast airport. The new Qantas Club facility will be able to cater for more than 100 people.
Qantas pulled out of the Gold Coast in 2008 citing high fuel prices, but still operated the to the city using its low-cost unit Jetstar. The new flights will be operated in the morning, afternoon and evening.