Sunshine Coast Airport is responding to a strong demand for holiday travel this Christmas and New Year period, with a significant increase in passenger seat capacity.
During this holiday season, the total average daily seat capacity will be 6400 seats – an increase of 3.8 per cent from last year.
The increase reflects strong passenger appetite for travel during the festive season, Sunshine Coast Airport chief executive officer Chris Mills says.
“We know Christmas is one of the most important travel periods for families and we’re pleased to offer more seats and more choice to travellers than ever before,” he says.
“Our airline partners have responded to demand which means more travellers can reach their favourite destinations sooner.”
Qantas will begin flying the new A220 aircraft, resulting in an additional eight flights per week. Virgin Airlines has increased school holiday capacity by almost 20 per cent from last year.
Federal government statistics for September show that the highest load factor in the country was recorded on the Melbourne to Sunshine Coast route.
“The increase is a clear sign that the Sunshine Coast is the natural choice for travel,” Mr Mills says.
“Next year is expected to be even busier, particularly with the commencement of Jetstar direct flights to Bali and on to Singapore.”
Passengers are encouraged to arrive early, check in online and stay up to date on travel requirements.
Terminal expansion works are underway but are not expected to affect travel over the holiday period.
