TOWNSVILLE BECOMES CHEAP FLIGHT DESTINATION

The cost of flights to Townsville will be cut in half, giving local businesses and the economy a significant boost.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Tourism Aviation Network was Australia’s latest ticket to recovery as the Federal Government backs our aviation and tourism industries to lay the foundations for our economic recovery.

“This is a big win for the local community with Townsville being added to the program,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“Townsville was already one of several locations being considered for further inclusion in this network and based on the continued consultations we have been undertaking, it will now join the list.”

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said he had been overwhelmed by the response to the discount flight offer.

“We know how much Australians love a holiday and they’re very excited about the prospect of half-price flights to some of our country’s premier tourist destinations, and they’ll be even more excited now we’ve added Townsville as a destination,” Minister Tehan said.

“We have already seen a spike in google searches for the phrase ‘flights to’ and airlines are reporting a surge in enquiries so Australians are responding as hoped — they’re booking holidays and supporting local jobs and businesses.”

Federal Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson said he had been meeting with dozens of tourism, accommodation and hospitality business operators over the past year.

“This has been the toughest year these businesses have ever had to endure. The restrictions have resulted in a massive hit to visitation,” Mr Thompson said.

“I have been putting forward Townsville's case for inclusion to Ministers and I’m very grateful they have agreed to this much-needed extra support.”

Townsville-based Senator for Queensland Susan McDonald said that Townsville would now join the Tourism Aviation Network, which would operate from 1 April to 31 July.

“The Network will see an increased number of flights to our region, with a 50 per cent discount on domestic fares,” Senator McDonald said.

“Discounted flights can be booked through travel agents or direct from airline websites.”

Flights, routes and the total number of tickets will be driven by demand and are subject to final discussions with the airlines.