Overview
Before the pandemic, we all had a friend who has moved to our neck of the woods from interstate or overseas, and then spent far more time exploring the state than we ever had. Back then, we all thought we'd follow in their footsteps one day, at some point, somewhere in the future. Thanks to COVID-19 restrictions and Australia's closed international border — the latter of which is expected to remain that way until at least mid-2022 — that has changed, of course. Queenslanders, your time is now.
At the moment, we're all holidaying locally. Instead of planning big European getaways or Japanese jaunts, Queenslanders are making the most of our own backyard. With The Whitsundays part of the state, we obviously have plenty of supremely scenic choices — and, come September, we'll now have another way to get there if heading north is on the cards.
From Friday, September 17, Qantas will start flying from Brisbane to The Whitsundays, adding a new route to its operations. It'll run seven return trips a week to and from Proserpine, which'll add more than 1000 seats on the route each week — all on a 74-seat Q400 turboprop aircraft.
Other airlines already make the trip, but you now have more options. Until Saturday, July 10, you can also nab $109 direct flights if you're now thinking about your next holiday.
Whitehaven Beach in The Whitsundays
"With international borders still largely closed, we're pleased to be making it easier for Australians to experience the world-famous beaches of the Whitsunday region and access the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef," said QantasLink CEO John Gissing — with the new flights falling under the QantasLink banner.
For Brisbanites who'd rather jet off to colder climes, Qantas has already added new routes to the Snowy Mountains and the Victorian Alps this year. Keen on leaving the mainland? It has been flying from Brisbane to Norfolk Island, too.
Qantas' new flights to Brisbane to The Whitsundays will start flying from Friday, September 17. For more information, or to book, head to the airline's website.