Virgin Australia puts Newcastle, NSW back on international map
Virgin Australia will launch the first international flights out of Newcastle, New South Wales for more than 16 years.
It will connect Newcastle with Auckland three times a week beginning November 22.
The seasonal route runs until February 17, but Virgin will continue flying it if there is sufficient demand year-round.
It is the first overseas service since Freedom Air scrapped Newcastle-Auckland flights back in 2001.
Virgin will operate 176-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft on the route.
"These flights will help drive regional tourism growth and dispersal of visitors to Australia’s most popular tourism destinations," said minister for infrastructure and transport, Michael McCormack.
The airport believes it will shave off about 10 hours in travel time compared to driving to or taking a connecting flight via Sydney.
"With this direct flight, local residents will arrive in Auckland within three hours, ensuring they have more time to enjoy the breath-taking sights and incredible experiences New Zealand is famous for," said Virgin’s general manager of network, revenue and alliances, Russell Shaw.
"The Greater Hunter region will also benefit from increased tourism opportunities, with New Zealanders now able to travel direct to Newcastle and explore the region and all it has to offer, including wineries, restaurants and the pristine beaches."
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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