Bonza Airline Discussion

[henrus]

Anyone else booked in the inaugural OOL-TSV flight?

Most of the seat map is blocked and the initial flight schedule leaves 6 hours in Townsville making me think it'll be a media event.

 

[Saab34]

They will probably do an event down near the waterfront area like all the other new route launches. I recall some pax got invited to the event also if they did the same day return.

 

[henrus]

They will probably do an event down near the waterfront area like all the other new route launches. I recall some pax got invited to the event also if they did the same day return.

Yes I was on the inaugural bonza flight and got invited down to the event. Those getting off the flight were handed a wristband and that was basically the ticket to the day.

 

[Mattg]

I have the iOS version, I updated the version on launch as prompted, then when I first checked the calendar didn’t appear, then the app crashed and rebooted itself. Then it worked.

I tried all that - still isn't working for me but I wasn't able to get the app to crash. That seems to be the trick?

Pressing "yes" to upgrading on launch doesn't seem to do anything and no update is available in the Apple App Store.

Edit: Seems to be working now. Definitely wasn't for me earlier this morning

 

[Saab34]

Everytime they load new routes someone shouldn’t need to update an app or something.

How long until a website makes an appearance I wonder. I am fairly sure it’s Flair offshoot has a website.

 

[henrus]

Edit: Seems to be working now. Definitely wasn't for me earlier this morning

Hopefully that’s hold strong and you’ve been able to look/book?

That update message is indeed odd and I sometimes get it as well.

 

[Albert Hoffman]

I think they will do well with most of these new routes, as they will with future MCY/TSV-PER flights..

 

[dajop]

Just completed a return MQL-MCY. Worked well visiting family in Mildura and close friend on Sunshine Coast (drive to a Mildura which was about 4 hrs from where I was before that).

Flights both on time, outbound about 75% full, inbound closer to 60-65%. Still had the “new car feel” to it. Crew were welcoming and pleasant, partook in a snack and drink outbound which was reasonably priced and good you can track the flight over the localised wifi onboard.

At $198 return including 15kg checked luggage (actually 2 of us shared the luggage so average was $173 each), would do it again.

Minor thing - I liked the QR code ordering, but I don’t think it serves them that well. In the absence of a printed menu, I can’t help but think a basket service (no need for trolleys) with various snacks on display would induce more sales.

 

[Harrison_133]

Launceston to Gold Coast commences 21st November 2023. Fares start at $79.

 

[Saab34]

I recall this route might have been done by VA or JQ before.

LST/MEL under same ownership umbrella so no surprises.

 

[Harrison_133]

I recall this route might have been done by VA or JQ before.

VA operated it 3 weekly in summer 2021/2022 but discontinued it after one season.

Ansett & TAA also used to operate weekend services on OOL-LST back in the day.

 

[RooFlyer]

From the Hobart Mercury

Launceston residents can now enjoy direct flights to the Gold Coast following airline Bonza’s latest destination announcement.

From November 21, Tasmanians will be able to fly three times a week on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays to the Gold Coast, with flights from as little as $79 one way.

Bonza Chief Commercial Officer Carly Povey said that more destinations for Launceston will soon be added.

“This brand new low-cost route is a first to operate year round and will open up opportunities in both destinations for tourism and trade,” Ms Povey said.

My bolding. Interesting.

 

[Saab34]

Tiger gave MEL-LST a crack, didn’t last long at one daily. Commonly the most cheapest route in the nation you can fly, so I doubt they would bother. MCY-LST likely.

 

[Harrison_133]

Another new route. Gold Coast to Mount Isa — twice a week from December 5th.

 

[henrus]

Another new route. Gold Coast to Mount Isa — twice a week from December 5th.

Last tried by Air North with E170s that continued to Darwin.

A very small niche market with many booked on a QF code as fifo travel policies allowed. Given Bonza doesn’t even allow booking online I don’t think that route will survive.

 

[Must...Fly!]

Actually I think it's a great idea for them, it's probably one of the niche routes that could work for an LCC. Fares to Isa are generally very expensive aren't they...but like all the other routes that might be great for an LCC, a 737 is probably too big...

 

[Saab34]

Would appear this will be operated by Flair.

 

[dajop]

...but like all the other routes that might be great for an LCC, a 737 is probably too big...

Well maybe the 737-MAX 7 instead of the 8 would be a better fit, but of course they're not available yet. Southwest seem to have a big order for them, alongside smaller orders from WestJet and Allegiant. Therefore they do seem to have a fit with LCC's or "value" carriers.

 

[HS-TQE]

Speaking of WestJet I wonder if they're going to go 2-class (with Euro-J with a blocked middle seat) or just all-Y on the -7s.

 

[Saab34]

And more

DRW-MCY
DRW-OOL
Both red eye.

MEL-ASP