Tasmania will get its first ever direct flights between Launceston and Canberra when Link Airways launches the new route on May 6.
The year-round service will operate four days a week, providing direct access to the nation’s capital without needing to transit through Melbourne or Sydney.
Tourism Minister Jane Howlett said the new route will boost Tasmania’s aviation capacity by 14,000 seats annually.
“Aviation access and capacity are vital to Tasmania,” she said.
“This service opens the door to a significant catchment from ACT and surrounding regions who have shown strong appetite for what Northern Tasmania has to offer.”
Howlett highlighted the region’s drawcard attractions, including Launceston’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy status, the Tamar Valley wine region and wilderness experiences.
The flights will operate on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, targeting shoulder and winter months to boost off-season tourism.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said the service showed confidence in Tasmania as a destination.
“We are proud to work with Launceston Airport and Link Airways to support this new route,” Vincent said.
The government has backed the flights through its Aviation Attraction Fund, which supports tourism industry growth.
Tasmania welcomed 60,000 visitors from the ACT and surrounding regions last year, with numbers expected to grow.
Link Airways is making its Launceston debut with the route, which will be code-shared with Virgin Australia.
This move allows passengers to connect with other Virgin flights and earn Velocity points.
Launceston Airport CEO Katie Cooper said it was exciting to welcome a fifth carrier.
“We’re proud to welcome Link Airways to Launceston and in doing so provide our passengers and exporters with another direct link to the mainland,” she said.
“Whether it be a direct school trip to Canberra or a hiking holiday of a lifetime, this service will be popular with travellers from both Launceston and Canberra.”
Flights start at $339 and are available through Link Airways’ website or travel agents.
