From the Pacific to the Tasman: Solomon Airlines links AKL and BNE

Another 14,000 seats a year have been added to capacity on the trans-Tasman, with Solomon Airlines adding a weekly direct flight from Auckland to Brisbane to its network.

Scott Tasker, Auckland Airport Chief Customer Officer said it was great to have another option for travellers between AKL and Brisbane, a popular destination for Kiwis.

“Brisbane is a great hopping off point for travellers looking to soak up Brisbane itself or head to the theme parks, beaches and hinterland destinations within driving distance. Plus with around 200,000 New Zealand expats living in Queensland – estimated to be close to 5% of the state’s population – there is plenty of travel back and forth to reconnect with friends and whānau.

“While markets such as the USA and China are now tracking above pre-COVID levels, trans-Tasman travel is still not fully recovered.

“At times the relatively tight trans-Tasman capacity has meant travellers have faced higher fares at key times in the year, so an increase in capacity and options for travellers is always welcome,” Mr Tasker said.
The new weekly service not only adds to seat availability on the trans-Tasman but with two onward connections through to the Solomon Islands, the option of same-day travel for seasonal workers.

John Wopereis, Commercial Manager at Solomon Airlines said: “The Auckland-Brisbane flights in both directions are timed to provide great connectivity, making travel easier and affordable for business and leisure travellers and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers, as well as those visiting friends and family in Australia, New Zealand and Solomon Islands.”

Mr Tasker also acknowledged the importance of regular connectivity from Solomon Islands to Auckland for seasonal workers.

“Solomon Airlines flights through to Brisbane and onward to the Solomon Islands is a great example of how reliable air connectivity brings a range of benefits to New Zealand’s economy. Our horticulture and viticulture industries in particular have been able to grow and develop through access to this important seasonal workforce."

Starting today, Solomon Airlines departs every Friday at 6.00am NZDT, arriving in Brisbane at 6.45am AEST, allowing for a full day of work or easy transfer to other flights.

Solomon Airlines also offers same-day flights from Brisbane to Solomon Islands’ capital Honiara, and Munda in the Western Province, making for a same-day connection between Auckland and Solomon Islands. A return flight from Brisbane to Auckland is set to depart each Friday at 6.25pm AEST, with scheduled arrival at 12.30am NZDT on Saturdays.

Solomon Airlines also flies from Auckland to Port Vila, Vanuatu, twice a week on Tuesday and Saturday.
Special Auckland-Brisbane launch fares are on offer from Solomon Airlines starting at NZD$255 one way and NZD$587 return including a meal, drinks and 30kgs checked baggage, until sold out.