Tamworth residents will be able to fly non-stop to Brisbane from early next year as QantasLink launches a new direct route, boosting tourism and giving local residents more flexibility to visit the Sunshine State.

From 29 March 2020, QantasLink will operate six weekly flights between Tamworth and Brisbane on a 74-seat Q400 turboprop aircraft, offering more than 23,000 seats each year for holidaymakers and business travellers.

QantasLink CEO John Gissing said the new route demonstrated the airline’s continued commitment to Tamworth.

“Qantas has a long and proud history in Tamworth and we’re pleased to be offering this new service and the opportunities it provides,” Mr Gissing said.

“As Australia’s largest regional airline, we know the value of connecting country cities to capitals and we’re proud to be bringing Brisbane a little closer to Australia’s country music capital.

Member for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson said the addition of the new route was fantastic news for the city.

“This Government has invested more than $6.2 million to upgrade the Tamworth Regional Airport terminal, to make it the front gate for Tamworth to the world,” said Mr Anderson.

“Tamworth has so much to offer as a regional centre of excellence in food production, entertainment, health and education. This air service will help capitalise on what we have to offer.

Tamworth Regional Council Mayor, Col Murray, is looking forward to the increased connectivity between Brisbane and Tamworth.

“Our growing region has a lot to offer. These additional flights will provide Queenslanders with further opportunities to explore business and leisure in our area and locals with increased accessibility to major centres around the country,” said Mr Murray.

“We are excited to see the economic benefits that this increased connectivity will provide.”