Mackay to Welcome Back Qantas Boeing 737s

INCREASED capacity for flights to and from Mackay has been secured following Qantas’ decision to bring Boeing 737s back to region for the first time since 2006. From next Monday, 22 June until the end of August, Qantas will supplement its existing air fleet with the much larger capacity, jet powered Boeing 737.

Mackay Airport General Manager Garry Porter said the announcement from Qantas would bring extra seats to the region.

“The addition of the Boeing 737 to Qantas’ air fleet servicing Mackay will result in increased capacity, meaning more visitors to the region,” he said.

“The 737 has a proven reputation as a comfortable and fast passenger jet engine aircraft and is currently in use by Virgin for flights to and from Mackay,” he said.

“The decision by Qantas to add the Boeing 737 to its Mackay air fleet was done so based on the strong performance of Mackay Airport and the demand for flights to and from the region throughout COVID,” said Mr Porter.  

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said a daily Qantas 737 Mackay flight was a big win for the region.

“Even during the worst of COVID, Mackay Airport was still busy welcoming essential and corporate workers,” he said.

“The addition of a Qantas 737 flight into Mackay will provide a significant boost to tourism’s recovery from COVID and locals will also benefit from the increased capacity,” Cr Williamson said.

Also welcoming the decision was Mackay Tourism Chief Executive Officer Tas Webber who said it was a win for tourism.

“A Qantas Boeing 737 returning to Mackay for the first time since 2006 will add to the recovery of Mackay’s tourism industry,” he said.

“For every additional visitor through Mackay Airport, there will be more motel nights, restaurant patrons, and local business customers,” Mr Webber said.

Flights to and from Mackay can be booked at qantas.com.au.

ENDS

 

Contact: 

Daniel Brown - Communications Officer

0448 994 180

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

 

Monday, 15 June 2020