In rare positive news for the local aviation industry, the Canberra Airport has announced an extension of the flight service between Ballina-Byron Bay and Canberra for a further eight weeks.
The flights, which began operating under FlyPelican on 3 July this year, will be extended until 23 October based on high demand.
Canberra Airport head of aviation, Michael Thomson, welcomed the news and said the service’s success was no surprise.
“We’re delighted with our new partnership with FlyPelican and the Ballina-Byron Gateway Airport and, as expected, this new service has been a huge success,” he said.
“Many Canberrans have escaped the Canberra chill and enjoyed a break in the Ballina-Byron region and vice versa, it’s been a great opportunity for visitors to fly to Canberra and enjoy all the great experiences Canberra and our region has on offer.”
The good news comes at a tough time for the airport, after it announced on Monday it would begin operating only six days per week in the midst of border closures.
The Ballina-Byron flights rolled out in July priced from $299 one way, operating three times per week.
Mr Thomson said it was a good opportunity for Canberrans to get away in coming weeks.
“It is wonderful to see these flights extended. A further eight weeks gives Canberrans the opportunity to escape to the sunny far north NSW coast now or for the next school holidays, with the service being extended until 23 October 2020.
“It also gives more opportunities for those on the North Coast of NSW to come to Canberra and the region. We are committed to the recovery of tourism and aviation and are excited for the small boost these flights will bring to Canberra.”
There are currently no active COVID-19 cases in the Ballina region, with two active cases confirmed in Byron Bay on 25 July, both of whom had travelled from Sydney and are now self-isolating. The ACT remains COVID-free.
For current advice on travel from the ACT, visit www.covid19.act.gov.au/community/travel
For more stories:
