For further information:
Amanda Bolger, Public and Media Relations Manager Virgin Blue Airlines Group.
07 3295 3115
amanda.bolger@virginblue.com.au
1
NEW YEAR SURPRISE FOR TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND
VIRGIN BLUE TO LAUNCH NEW CAIRNS – AUCKLAND FLIGHTS!
SALE FARES FROM $249* ONE WAY
Wednesday 30 December,
2009: Virgin Blue has re-affirmed its commitment to the people of Far
North Queensland with the announcement that it will launch its first international service from Cairns to
Auckland from 23 March 2010.
Virgin Blue’s New Zealand-based international airline, Pacific Blue, will operate the twice weekly flight,
which is scheduled on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with the airline committing a Boeing 737-800 aircraft
to the market, representing a 79% increase in seats available on the route.
In order to get the new route off the ground the airline has collaborated with a number of stakeholders
including Cairns Airport Pty Ltd
which has worked tirelessly to support Virgin Blue's first international
service.
In celebration of the new services, the airline has launched a seven day ‘Happy New Year Sale’ with
special fares for direct flights between Cairns - Auckland from $249* one way on the net, available
from today until midnight 5 January 2010.
Following the sale, regular lead-in fares will start from $349* one way on the net, around 15%^
cheaper than what is currently available with the only other competitor airline servicing the non-stop
route.
With over 30,000 visitors from New Zealand heading to Tropical North Queensland every year, Virgin
Blue Chief Executive, Brett Godfrey, said
the new services will not only provide an alternative travel
option but will also help grow the market.
“We’re particularly excited about this new service as it’s our first international route to and from Cairns.
“Importantly, we know that by putting more seats into the market and creating more competition we
will be helping to stimulate tourism to the popular Far North Queensland region.”
“Furthermore, the non-stop services will negate the need for travellers in either direction to connect via
other ports, so a trip ‘across the ditch’ will be a much quicker, more convenient and affordable option
for everyone,” Brett Godfrey finished.
For further information:
Amanda Bolger, Public and Media Relations Manager Virgin Blue Airlines Group.
07 3295 3115
amanda.bolger@virginblue.com.au
2
For those looking for a New Year get away, Virgin Blue Airlines Group’s holiday program Blue Holidays
also has a great package deal on offer including return flights from Cairns to Auckland and three nights
in a Superior Room at Rydges Auckland from $870 per person twin share#.
Flight Schedule
Cairns - Auckland Schedule:
Effective 23 March 2010 – 2 April 2010
Auckland - Cairns Schedule:
Effective 23 March 2010 – 3 April 2010
PLEASE NOTE: On Thursday 1 April Pacific Blue will operate one additional return service at 1615/1855 AKLCNS
and 2200/0530 CNSAKL to meet the increased traffic prior to the Easter holidays.
Cairns - Auckland Schedule:
Effective 3 April 2010 – 21 September 2010
Auckland - Cairns Schedule:
Effective 4 April 2010 – 21 September 2010
Convenient onward connections will also be available via Auckland to Christchurch and Wellington.
*
All fares are one-way on the internet or $15 more by phone, inclusive of taxes, fees and surcharges and are subject to
availability. Seats are limited and may not be available at peak times or on all flights. A credit/debit card fee of $5 per person per
one-way flight applies. International return fare may vary with the addition of local taxes and charges. Sale fares are for travel
from 23 March 2010 to 22 June 2010 and 20 July 2010 to 14 September 2010 on the non-stop services only.
# On Sale now until 31 January 2010 for travel from now until 30 June 2010. Package price is correct as at 22 December 2009.
During some periods air and hotel pricing may not be available and surcharges may apply. Prices are subject to availability and
not guaranteed until the booking is completed and confirmed. Prices based on direct route, including taxes, levies and other
government charges which may vary and are subject to change. Seasonal surcharges may apply. Hotel rates quoted are based
on double occupancy, per room per night, unless otherwise noted. Prices based on lead-in room, additional room types available.
Charges for extra persons and/or children may apply and will be charged directly by the hotel. Package conditions apply. Further
conditions may apply. Prices advertised are a
from price based on per person, twin share. Call 13 15 16 or visit
^ As sourced from the Global Distribution System on 22 December, 2009.
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