Virgin Australia has announced it will introduce two new routes and expand frequencies over the Easter holidays, strengthening its network and growing capacity in the leisure market.

New direct services between Adelaide-Sunshine Coast and Melbourne-Ballina Byron (Byron Bay) will initially operate across the Easter holiday period from 29 March 2021 until 25 April 2021, with lead-in economy class fares available from $129 one way.

Operated by a Boeing 737 aircraft, the new direct services will add more than 13,000 seats across 37 return flights to the airline’s network, as well as offer a range of benefits such as time-savings and convenience for travellers. Virgin Australia expects to extend the flights beyond the Easter period subject to easing border restrictions.

Expanded frequencies to key leisure destination such as Cairns, Hamilton Island, Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine), Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Ballina Byron (Byron Bay), Launceston, Hobart, Broome and Kununurra will also be added across the Easter holiday period as border restrictions ease and the airline shifts its focus to rebuilding domestic capacity.

Recognising the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine from next week and an end to Victoria’s circuit-breaker action today, the airline’s flexible flying policy is supporting travellers by waiving change and cancellation fees for bookings made before 30 April 2021, for travel until 31 January 2022.

Virgin Australia Group CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, said the best way to support those doing it tough this Easter is to go out and explore the incredible holiday experiences on offer across Australia.

“The tourism industry depends on all of us getting out and safely enjoying the company of family, friends and great adventures,” she said.

“We have all worked hard to get to a place where we can enjoy these travel opportunities once again, with the added benefit of supporting vital jobs in our tourism destinations.

“Our flexible flying policy gives confidence for travellers planning ahead these Easter School holidays, and the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine adds to the positive momentum around us. There’s a lot to look forward to this Easter.

“We are making it easier and more affordable for travellers to take a holiday with many more options for travel direct to key leisure destinations,” Hrdlicka said

The launch of new direct services between Adelaide-Sunshine Coast this Easter also coincides with the unveiling of Virgin Australia’s new-look Adelaide Lounge, which will officially open its doors on Tuesday 23 February 2021.