Australia’s new low-cost airline, Bonza, is calling on Australian airports to submit their expression of interest (EOI) before the closing date of 15 November.
Immediately after this, Bonza will use the bids to start working through its final network for the launch of service which, subject to regulatory approval, is expected in the second quarter of 2022.
Forty-six airports were invited to bid to be part of Bonza’s inaugural route map on 12 October when the airline was officially announced. So far, more than 35 airports have indicated they intend to bid for the independent airline’s new services.
Bonza CEO Tim Jordan is encouraging airports to put their best foot forward now in order to help their region benefit from increased tourism, particularly as the industry embarks on its pandemic recovery.
“Bonza’s entry to the Australian market will bring more travel choices than ever to everyday Aussies and, in turn, stimulate demand for regional destinations that have traditionally struggled with perceptions like distance and cost,” he said.
“We are moving at pace to have flights on sale, so we encourage airports to work with us now on finalising our network.”
Bonza’s chief commercial officer, Carly Povey, said: “I’ve seen first-hand the impact low-cost carriers have on regional and local communities who can expect significant direct and indirect employment and economic benefits.
“We will also be changing lives for many by making it easier for families to reconnect with one another after what might have been years apart.
“I look forward to working with Australian airports on commercial partnerships for our launch network and schedule. Working to better connect the regions is so important and timely with the pent-up demand to see more of our own backyard.”
Povey encouraged airports to “challenge themselves” to provide the best possible deal to secure their own future.
“It will help us not only with our launch network decisions but, critically, with a projection of future growth potential and partners prepared to support us as we stimulate additional leisure travel demand,” she said.
In parallel with airport discussions, Bonza’s leadership team continues to have conversations with state and territory governments to confirm the airline’s head office location, which Jordan has confirmed will be in a regional centre.
