Qantas has begun operating a new daily service to Melbourne for the first time in more than three years.
With overseas travel off the cards, the airline industry is boosting domestic routes.
Sunshine Coast Airport has already added three new destinations this year – Townsville, Canberra and Newcastle.
The daily QantasLink flight on the two-class 110-seat Boeing 717 will deliver more than 6500 seats a month in and out of the region.
The Coast is a popular destination for Victorians and welcomed 415,000 of them in the year ending March 2020.
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Sunshine Coast Airport Chief Executive Officer Andrew Brodie said there was increasing demand for travel to the Sunshine Coast.
“This service will provide another direct flight for sun-seeking Victorians looking to explore our beautiful beaches, magnificent hinterland and relaxed coastal towns over the summer months,” Mr Brodie said.
“And of course it offers Sunshine Coast locals the chance to reconnect with family and friends, enjoy the vibrant city of Melbourne or explore the historical towns and beautiful scenery of regional Victoria.”
QantasLink CEO John Gissing said there was huge demand for Victorians to head north.
“We’re delighted to have these services operating just in time for the summer holidays,” Mr Gissing said.
The direct link from Tullamarine was supported by the Palaszczuk Government’s $15 million Aviation Recovery Fund.
