Virgin Australia has begun daily return services between Brisbane and Port Macquarie with new ATR turbo prop aircraft, as it continues to expand its regional presence.

Virgin Australia Group Executive ‐ Alliances, Network and Yield Merren McArthur said the services provided a first daily return service for the Port Macquarie community allowing them to bypass Sydney to travel north to Brisbane and beyond. Guests will be able to connect from Brisbane onto Virgin Australia’s domestic and international network and partner airline flights.

“The direct flights from Brisbane will also support tourism in this popular seaside destination, linking it to Virgin Australia’s extensive Queensland network,” she said.

McArthur said the 68 seater ATR72 would also service the Port Macquarie to Sydney route 28 per week.

Under its alliance with Virgin Australia, Skywest will operate and maintain the ATR aircraft on behalf of Virgin Australia using Virgin Australia’s branding and quality inflight product and service.

The launch of new Virgin Australia direct return flights from Port Macquarie to Brisbane is expected provide a much-needed boost to local tourism in both destinations.

“Accommodation and tourism operators in these areas welcome the new flights, which allow greater access for more international and domestic travellers to NSW’s beautiful mid‐north coast, and all that Brisbane has to offer,” said Chief Executive Officer of the Accommodation Association of Australia, Richard Munro.