Queenslanders can now take advantage of more travel options to Adelaide with QantasLink’s new direct flights from the Gold Coast launching today.

The national carrier’s first flight from the Gold Coast departed for Adelaide Airport this morning, marked by celebrations for customers at the gate.

QantasLink is operating four weekly return flights with the Embraer E190 regional jet aircraft, delivering more than 750 seats on the route each week. Flights will increase to daily during school holiday peaks.

The E190 aircraft type made its debut on the QantasLink network last month as part of the airline’s deal with Alliance Airlines. With its size, range and economics, the 94-seat jet has opened up a number of new routes that wouldn’t have been viable with Qantas’ existing fleet.

Qantas Holidays is offering a special package for travellers to Adelaide at Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets until 30 June 2021, valid for stays from 13 June to 10 December 2021.

Gold Coast-Adelaide is one of 47 new routes that the Qantas Group has announced since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and the fifth new route launched from the Gold Coast, responding to the fact that more Australians are holidaying domestically.

The new route has been made possible with the support of Queensland Airports Limited, Adelaide Airport and South Australian Tourism Commission.

Qantas’ Fly Flexible policy offers customers who book flights before 31 July 2021 added flexibility with unlimited fee free date changes when travelling before 28 February 2022. (A fare difference may apply).

Comments to be attributed to QantasLink CEO John Gissing

“With international travel largely off the table for now, more Australians are taking the opportunity to holiday here at home.

“Adelaide, a city bursting with culture and entertainment and the gateway to Australia’s world-famous wine regions, has been very popular with travellers in recent months. We’re pleased to be making it more accessible for Queenslanders to visit with these new flights.

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

“People know exactly what to expect when they book with Qantas, whether its complimentary food and drinks, baggage or access to 33 lounges around Australia including in Adelaide and the Gold Coast.”