Mackay Airport
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Qantaslink to expand services

The Mackay Port Authority has welcomed moves by Qantaslink to boost capacity and frequency covering its services to Brisbane and other regional centres.

Qantaslink is planning to introduce a double-daily service to Brisbane using its new Bombardier Q400 aircraft. The 72 seater turbo-prop aircraft will replace Qantas’ aging Boeing 737 aircraft.

Mackay Airport general manager Trevor Heard believes the dual return direct Qantaslink services to Brisbane will be welcomed by the local business community.

"It will give people an additional option to conduct business in Brisbane," he said.

The new service will have an early departure time of 6.45 a.m. The evening service will leave Brisbane at 6.35 p.m.

Mackay travellers will also be able to take advantage of more seats on the popular Townsville and Cairns services.

"An additional 420 seats will be available each week with the introduction of the new Q400 aircraft – that’s an increase of 26 per cent," Mr Heard said.

"Services to Townsville and Cairns are often booked out well in advance so this move will be greeted with open arms by the travelling public."

The upgraded aircraft will also boost capacity on the Mackay/Rockhampton/Gladstone route by an additional 330 seats a week.