Regional carrier Link Airways has inaugurated the first-ever nonstop service connecting Canberra and Launceston, marking a new milestone for Tasmanian air travel. The inaugural flight touched down in northern Tasmania today, operating four times per week on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
The route utilizes Saab 340B Plus turboprop aircraft, adding approximately 14,000 seats annually to Tasmania’s aviation capacity. The service is supported by the Tasmanian Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund in collaboration with Canberra Airport and Launceston Airport.
Tasmania welcomed 60,000 visitors from the Australian Capital Territory and surrounding regions last year. By offering a direct connection, the new route eliminates the need for passengers to transit through Melbourne or Sydney, making travel between the two regions more convenient.
Launceston Airport CEO Katie Cooper highlighted the importance of the new service, noting that Link Airways becomes the airport’s fifth carrier. “Whether it’s your first visit to Parliament House, a glimpse of Cataract Gorge, or a long-overdue reunion, this new service opens the door to seamless two-way travel,” Cooper said. She added that direct flights now connect Tasmania to all mainland state capitals and the national capital.
Flights depart Canberra at 11:30 a.m., arriving in Launceston at 1:20 p.m. The return flight leaves Launceston at 1:50 p.m., landing in Canberra at 3:35 p.m. The route is codeshared with Virgin Australia, allowing passengers to earn Velocity Frequent Flyer points and access broader domestic connections.
Jeff Boyd, Link Airways’ manager of network strategy, said the new service will benefit both business and leisure travelers by improving accessibility across Bass Strait. “Through our codeshare with Virgin Australia, the connection offers excellent convenience and enhanced connectivity across Australia,” Boyd said.
Canberra Airport’s head of aviation, Michael Thomson, emphasized the appeal for leisure travelers, noting the ease of exploring Tasmania’s food, wine, and natural attractions without stopovers. The new route follows the recent launch of a seasonal direct service between Hobart and Newcastle, also supported by the Aviation Attraction Fund. The Tasmanian Government has committed $5 million over four years to the fund to increase air capacity in the state.
