Flights will resume at the Rockhampton Airport as of today thanks to the Federal Government’s announcement to underwrite Virgin and Qantas, keeping the airlines flying during Covid-19.
Rockhampton was among the list of regional centres that will receive a minimum domestic network servicing the most critical metropolitan and regional routes for at least the next eight weeks.
Virgin flights to and from Brisbane will resume three days per week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, starting today, and Qantas is also expected to release its new schedule of flights today.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow thanked Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry and the Government for its support to keep the Region connected.
“I had raised the issue of domestic flights with Michelle earlier this week and she was already onto it,” Mayor Strelow said.
“A competitive air service is one of the most important pieces in the puzzle to rebuilding our economy when we get out the other side.
“Our region was very badly impacted when Ansett fell over and we learnt those lessons well. So I thank Michelle Landry particularly for her advocacy for us and all the work she has done behind the scenes.
“Thank you Michelle,” Mayor Strelow said.
Council’s Chair of Airport Growth and Development Councillor Neil Fisher said the recommencement of flights will see medical patients and visiting specialists able to keep appointments and will give other essential workers access to where they need to go.
“These flights are absolutely critical not only to the success of the aviation industry and to keep medical staff and patients connected, but it is critical for Australia as we deal with this pandemic,” Cr Fisher said.
“Virgin Flights from Brisbane to Rockhampton will depart at 12.35pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and flights from Rockhampton to Brisbane will depart at 2.40pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
“We are very thankful for this lifeline that will keep us connected – it’s a sigh of relief for those in our community who will benefit from this decision.”
