The flying kangaroo will today land in the Whitsunday Coast for the first time in seventeen years.

The national carrier’s first flight from Brisbane arrives at Proserpine Airport this afternoon, with celebrations planned at the gate to welcome customers.

QantasLink will operate up to seven weekly return flights on the route with its 74-seat Q400 turboprop aircraft, adding more than 1000 seats each week.

QantasLink CEO John Gissing said the new route would open up more options for travellers wanting to experience the Whitsunday Coast just in time for the school holidays.

“We have already seen a great response for our new flights to the Whitsunday Coast and we’re pleased to be making it easier for Australians to explore this fantastic region with its world-famous beaches,” said Mr Gissing.

“Once borders reopen, these flights will open up the Whitsunday Coast to Qantas customers across the country and ultimately from around the world who will be able to seamlessly connect through Brisbane from our extensive domestic and international networks.

“More visitors will be great for the north Queensland economy with flow on benefits for local businesses in their recovery from the impact of COVID.

“Travellers will now be able to earn and use points on flights to the Whitsunday Coast and enjoy our premium service, whether its complimentary food and drinks, baggage or access to our lounges in Brisbane.”

The new Brisbane-Proserpine services complement Jetstar ten weekly return flights on the route. Jetstar flights from Melbourne and Sydney will resume when borders reopen.

Qantas’ Fly Flexible policy offers customers who book flights for travel before 28 February 2022 added flexibility with unlimited fee free date changes (A fare difference may apply).