Virgin Australia is set to re-introduce services from Sydney and Melbourne to Coffs Harbour in time for the Christmas holidays as vaccination rates in New South Wales and Victoria continue at a rapid pace.

Virgin Australia Group Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Alistair Hartley, said the airline would operate up to 21 return services each week between the cities, with Sydney-Coffs Harbour scheduled to take-off on 11 November 2021, followed by the seasonal Melbourne service one week later on 18 November 2021, which will run until 25 April 2022.

“Virgin Australia is thrilled to re-introduce services from Sydney and Melbourne to Coffs Harbour in time for the busy Christmas holiday period,” he said.

“Virgin Australia will provide over 14,500 seats each month to Coffs Harbour for our guests to experience the beautiful beaches, incredible National Parks and of course visit the Big Banana!

“We know many travellers, particularly those from New South Wales and Victoria, will be excited to experience the freedom to travel again and our flights will not only provide an opportunity to explore more of our wonderful country, but to reunite with friends and family in time for the summer holidays.

“The flights will provide a massive injection into the local tourism economy, not to mention allow more Virgin Australia team members to return to the skies, which they have dearly missed the past few months.

“To give customers added confidence when making a new booking, we are continuing to waive applicable change fees and allowing unlimited changes for bookings for travel between now and 28 February 2022.

“And for the next six months, all Velocity Frequent Flyer members will receive up to 100 per cent bonus Status Credits when they fly on eligible bookings, so they’ll be able to snag a bargain airfare and be rewarded for their loyalty with up to twice as many Status Credits when they fly,” Hartley said.

To celebrate the return of services, Virgin Australia is offering one-way Economy sale fares from $45 one-way.