Tuesday 30 April 2024

Bonza temporarily suspended services amid concerns over airline's viability



It is really disappointing to hear regional airline Bonza has halted flights while the company assesses its "ongoing viability".

"Today, Bonza has temporarily suspended services that were scheduled to operate, as we are currently in discussions about the ongoing viability of the business," stated Bonza CEO Tim Jordan.

"We regret the inconvenience caused to our customers affected by this and are working swiftly to find a solution that ensures continued competition in the Australian domestic aviation market."

On the 30th of April, four flights heading to the Gold Coast were canceled from Mackay, Melbourne (Avalon), Launceston, and Proserpine.

Flights from Sunshine Coast Airport to Newcastle and Rockhampton have been canceled, while flights to Avalon, Mildura, and Mackay are still listed.



Federal Transport Minister Catherine King announced she had spoken with the CEOs of Qantas and Virgin, who are prepared to help stranded passengers return home.

"My department has contacted Bonza, and we expect them to keep passengers informed about their options and consumer rights," Ms King stated.

Additionally, the department is setting up a hotline for stranded passengers, with details to be provided once available.

Virgin Australia has extended complimentary travel to passengers affected by the cancellations.

"We will offer immediate support to passengers stranded mid-journey by providing complimentary seats on Virgin Australia-operated flights to the airport closest to their intended Bonza destination," the airline announced on X.

For Bonza passengers already at an airport, please approach a Virgin Australia customer service representative or call our Guest Contact Centre at 13 67 89., a Virgin spokesperson said."

Bonza, established in October 2021 by ex-Virgin Blue executive Tim Jordan, received its initial investment and backing from the U.S. investment firm 777 Partners and commenced operations on the 31st of January 2023.

Bonza Aviation Pty Ltd, operating as Bonza, was an Australian low-cost airline, headquartered on the Sunshine Coast.  

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