“A momentous occasion” for Whitsunday Coast Airport as the first Bonza aircraft touched down at the local facility on Wednesday as part of the airline’s preparation process for full-fledged operations.
‘Shazza’, one of two purple and white planes operated by the budget airline, landed in the region as part of a test run, travelling from the Sunshine Coast to the Whitsundays and back.
Landing at approximately 9:05am on Wednesday, the Bonza piloted flight acted as a training opportunity, allowing the plane’s crew to familiarise themselves with the local airport’s operations ahead of the official first flight which is now expected to take place sometime next year.
The budget airline is still awaiting its CASA approvals - which will allow its planes to operate commercially.
This first test landing on Wednesday signifies a progression towards those full-fledged operations.
Carly Povey, Chief Commercial Officer at Bonza, said the day allowed her “team of legends” the pleasure of flying into Whitsunday Coast Airport from the company’s home base at Sunshine Coast Airport.
“The flight is part of our internal preparation process as we prepare for wheels up. We thank Whitsunday Coast Airport for their support today,” she said.
Craig Turner, Chief Operating Officer Aviation and Tourism, said he was excited to see the iconic purple plane on the tarmac.
“We’re pleased to say the arrival and departure went smoothly and we’re another step closer to opening a new market for the region and connecting the Whitsundays with three new destinations,” Mr Turner said.
The airline plans to operate flights from Whitsunday to the Sunshine Coast three times per week, Whitsunday to Newcastle twice a week, and Whitsunday Toowoomba twice a week.
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