Qantas will begin flights between Orange and Sydney, bringing much needed competition to the skies of Central West NSW.
From 1 May, QantasLink will fly 11 return flights between Orange and Sydney on a mix of Q300 and Q200 aircraft adding more than 45,000 seats on the route each year.
Orange residents and visitors will benefit from competitive fares and more flight options as well as the onward connectivity through Qantas’ domestic and international network and partner airlines like Emirates and American Airlines.
QantasLink CEO John Gissing said the national carrier was proud to offer more travel choices to the Central West.
“After years of locals calling for the flying kangaroo, the iconic red tail will touch down at Orange Airport for the first time in May,” Mr Gissing said.
“Orange is a thriving place with an increasingly diverse economy. There’s growing demand for a premium airline to connect business and leisure travellers.
“These additional flights will make it easier for Sydney residents and domestic and international tourists to discover one of NSW’s most beautiful regions, with its world-class restaurants and wineries.
“As part of our commitment to the route we will also promote Orange on a global stage, across Qantas’ domestic and international markets and to the airline’s 13 million frequent flyers.”
NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said that the flights would help even more people explore what the Central West has to offer.
“Now’s the time to show your love for NSW and book a flight to explore Orange, which really does offer a world class experience with exceptional food, wine and scenery,” Minister Ayres said.
“This city is very much open for business and ready to welcome visitors and it’s fantastic to see Qantas helping even more people experience this beautiful part of our state.”
Orange Mayor Reg Kidd also welcomed today’s Qantas announcement as a major boost for the region. “The decision by Qantas to begin flights to Orange is a vote of confidence in the region’s future,” Cr Kidd said.
“Orange’s passenger numbers have been growing steadily in recent years as the regional economy has expanded, using the airport as a key connection. It’s fantastic that Qantas see themselves as part of this growing region.
“Qantas’ decision also confirms the investment Orange City Council has made, supported by other tiers of government, to gradually upgrade the airport.
“It’s hard to overestimate the importance of having the Qantas badge as an integral part of this airport.”
To celebrate the new route, Qantas is offering special fares of $129 on the 50 minute flight between Orange and Sydney, for travel between 1 May 2020 and 25 October 2020. Fares are available to book through qantas.com or local travel agents until 17 February 2020. Orange residents can join the Qantas Frequent Flyer program for free until 28 February 2020 via qantas.com/orangefreejoin.
Orange is Qantas’ 13th destination in NSW after Sydney, Albury, Armidale, Ballina (Byron Bay), Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Lord Howe Island, Moree, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Tamworth and Wagga Wagga.
Last year the Qantas Group contributed $1.6 billion to regional Australia and generated over 5,000 local jobs.
* Orange residents can join the Qantas Frequent Flyer program for free until Friday 28 February 2020
