Qantas flights back by demand
QANTAS is making a return trip to the Gold Coast after four years.
The national carrier will fly three times daily between Sydney and the Gold Coast starting in October.
Airline CEO Alan Joyce was at the airport on Monday to make the announcement.
"Qantas will be re-entering the market with three services a day," Mr Joyce said.
"There is a position in the premier market to the Gold Coast."
Mr Joyce said growth of the market was the main factor for the decision.
"The Gold Coast is a huge growth market for Jetstar," he said.
"We are the biggest carrier operating in Queensland. This (decision) will mean employment here on the Gold Coast."
Queensland Premier Campbell Newman, Queensland Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey and Gold Coast mayor Tom Tate were at the airport for the announcement.
"It's a great boost in confidence in the Gold Coast," Mr Newman said.
"This announcement made by Qantas is critical as we need the extra seats."
Mr Joyce said demand in the Gold Coast was strong.
"With the massive development of south-east Queensland, the Gold Coast is Australia's sixth-largest city and a fast growing premium travel market," he said.
"Our customers have told us that they want a premium leisure and business service, complementing Jetstar's existing services as part of our two-brand strategy and we are responding to that demand."
