VIRGIN BLUE CELEBRATES NEW MELBOURNE-AUCKLAND ROUTE WITH $199* FARE
Monday 28 July 2008: Virgin Blue Airlines today announced it will commence flying between Melbourne and Auckland with daily return services starting from 22 September, 2008.*
The new trans-Tasman flights will be operated by Virgin Blue’s international subsidiary Pacific Blue using 180-seat, Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
Seats on the new trans-Tasman service from Melbourne to Auckland will go on sale from 11.00am today, with a special launch fare of $199* one-way (including all taxes, fees and surcharges).
The $199* fares for travel between 22 September and 13 December, 2008 are on sale for 72-hours only and available via the airline’s web site (www.virginblue.com.au|).
Virgin Blue Chief Executive Brett Godfrey said the expansion was a logical next step for the airline group following the compelling success of Pacific Blue.
“We have been considering this route for some time, as we’re always interested in markets that are under-served,” Mr Godfrey said.
“It makes sense to us and we’re confident air travellers will feel the same way. We plan to offer tremendous value on both sides of the Tasman which has got to be good for travellers and also for visitor numbers to Melbourne and Auckland at either end of the route”, he said.
Melbourne Airport CEO Chris Woodruff said the announcement was another win for Victoria.
“The important role direct international air services provide to Melbourne and Victoria can’t be understated.
“New Zealand is our largest market, more than double the UK (450,000). According to the latest passenger card data there are over 900,000 passenger movements to/from New Zealand per year, an increase of 5% from the previous year, and an average annual growth rate of 7% since 2004.
“This announcement will see even stronger growth in this market into the future", Mr Woodruff finished.
Virgin Blue’s everyday low fares between Melbourne and Auckland will start from $279 one way on the internet (inclusive of taxes, fees and surcharges), more than 30% cheaper than competitor fares^.
^ Correct as at 27 July 2008.
For further information:
Amanda Bolger
Public & Media Relations Manager
Virgin Blue Airlines
Ph: 0402 137 071