Thread: Virgin Australia cuts routes, retires aircraft.

Regional Australia misses out again. It costs almost as much to fly to Mt Isa as it does to fly over seas.


Virgin Australia cuts routes, retires planes

Originally Posted by bob10

Not blaming any one, really. I would have stated it, if I was. Just pointing out VA has retired 3 Fokkers, that would have been used on regional routes, and I'm assuming there. But, perhaps you could explain why regional air fares are so High ? A lot of country people would like to know. I'm sure there's a reasonable explanation.

A while ago I flew from Brisbane to Winton. Changed planes at Longreach. I was the only passenger on the Longreach to Winton leg. The majority of passengers deplaned at Emerald. Lack of patronage may have some bearing on pricing. A friend had to fly Brisbane-Darwin-Brisbane for a funeral of a close relative. He could have flown the family to London and back or a week's family package holiday at Sentosa Resort for less. Perth AFL fans tell me it is cheaper to fly Perth-Singapore-Melbourne than direct Perth-Melbourne for their grand final.

In 2001 I had need to fly urgently Brisbane-Mt. Isa-Brisbane. Then there were only two or three flights a week and all were solidly booked for three weeks ahead. I could have flown to Townsville and changed to a Mt. Isa flight there. More services. Cost either way was horrific. My choice was a seat on the skinny dog or to drive. I drove.