Queensland Airport Limited (QAL) and the Qantas Group have signed a long-term agreement covering its four airports that will support regional connectivity for millions of passengers each year.
The agreement builds on a more than 20-year partnership, underpinning the airline’s operations at Gold Coast and Townsville airports for the next seven years, and Mount Isa and Longreach airports for the next 10 years.
Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting regional growth and driving the recovery of the travel industry both in Queensland and beyond.
“In the history of QAL’s partnership with the Qantas Group, more than 82 million passengers have flown with either Jetstar or Qantas through one of our four airports,” said Ms Evans.
“Creating valuable connections for the regions in which we operate is central to our organisational vision, and airline partnerships like this are key to achieving our collective goals.
“The Qantas Group has been operating services from QAL’s four ports for decades, providing an essential lifeline for regional and remote communities, facilitating positive economic and social outcomes.
“Australia’s geographic isolation makes it even more critical for us to foster strong domestic and international partnerships. Agreements like this are pivotal in ensuring that we not only meet the rising demand for domestic travel but also continue to re-establish global connections.”
QantasLink Chief Executive Officer Rachel Yangoyan said the new agreement delivered more certainty for both businesses as well as regional passengers.
“As an airline born in outback Queensland more than 100 years ago, we understand the importance of aviation to this state,” Ms Yangoyan said.
“Together Qantas and Jetstar fly to 23 ports around the state, helping Queenslanders get to where they need to be and bringing in millions of tourists each year.
“Along with our fleet investment, this new deal will enable us to continue to grow our presence across some of our most important Queensland destinations.”
Townsville Enterprise Limited CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith expressed strong support for the renewed partnership, emphasising the importance of aviation in driving regional growth and connectivity.
"Aviation is essential to the lifeblood of regional communities like Townsville, supporting business, community needs, and the tourism sector. With over $33 billion in planned investments, the demand for aviation services is set to soar, making it more critical than ever to ensure strong, reliable connectivity across the country," she said.
"Townsville North Queensland has long benefited from strong connectivity and support from the Qantas Group. This renewed long-term partnership between QAL and the Qantas Group marks a significant step forward, reinforcing and strengthening the relationship that is so crucial to our region.”