Jetstar has reinforced its commitment to serving Uluru by launching services between Melbourne and Ayers Rock Airport in addition to increasing its existing Sydney frequency.
The low cost carrier will commence four times weekly return services between Melbourne and Uluru from June 29, making it the only scheduled carrier to offer direct flights between the two destinations.
lt will also increase its four times weekly Sydney service to a daily service, with a “steady” increase in demand seen on the route since its launch last year.
Jetstar Australia and New Zealand CEO David Hall described it as a “great development” for both the Victorian and Northern Territory tourism industries.
“We know Uluru is one of Australia’s most highly sought after holiday destinations and we’re confident our low fares will help drive tourism growth to the region,” he said.
“History has shown we have a great track record of generating new market demand through our low fares and we’re excited about the role we’re playing to strengthen the local tourism industry.”
Hall reported a high number of international travellers that connect on to Jetstar services from Sydney to Uluru and was confident the same pattern would be seen from Melbourne.
“This is good news for the Victorian economy as we’re likely to see more international travellers combining a stopover in Melbourne with their visit to Uluru,” he said.
Meanwhile, Voyages acting chief executive Andrew Williams said the new services reflected rising interest in the destination.
“The improvements to the Resort’s product and service levels and the wide range of activities and events now offered to guests is contributing to a significant increase in demand for the destination,” he said.
In order to tap into that Melbourne market, Voyages had recently announced a seasonal charter service from Melbourne to Ayers Rock Airport.
“Voyages initiative to trial a direct air charter from Melbourne to Ayers Rock has also helped to establish demand in that market,” Williams said. “It is great to see Jetstar now responding to this growing demand by significantly increasing its services to the destination.”
Return flights from Melbourne will operate each Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. All services to and from Uluru are operated by an Airbus A320 in a single class.
