Qantas has given a firm date for the return of two early morning flights between Devonport and Melbourne, just weeks after their removal sparked outcry from the local community.
The airline had initially cut the services as part of a network reshuffle that included introducing larger Q400 turboprop aircraft on the route.
Under the revised plans, early morning 6:30am departures on Mondays and Tuesdays will be reinstated from the end of January next year.
This reversal comes after strong advocacy from the Devonport Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), Mayor Alison Jarman and several Senators.
All were concerned about the negative impact the reduced flight frequency would have on business travellers, tourists and those requiring medical treatment in Melbourne.
“I thank QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan and her team for meeting with me and listening to the concerns we raised on behalf of our members and the wider community,” DCCI President Claire Connelly said.
“We’re keen to continue working with Qantas, not only with a view towards more affordable, more frequent flights, but also to raise the profile of Devonport airport and our city more broadly.”
Qantas last month assured that capacity to and from Devonport would be maintained and increased once the transition to the larger Q400 aircraft and pilot training was complete.
