Virgin Australia is showing strong support for regional Queensland by increasing the use of its Boeing 737 aircraft on flights to Mount Isa and Townsville.
This decision has been warmly received by local communities and tourism operators. It furthers the airline’s commitment to improving regional travel options.
Introduction of 737 on Regional Routes
Starting in late July 2025, Virgin Australia will introduce Boeing 737 aircraft on the Brisbane to Mount Isa route. These planes offer a dual-cabin experience with Business and Economy seating, replacing the Fokker 100 aircraft previously operated by partner Alliance Airlines.
Meanwhile, the Brisbane to Townsville route will see a significant upgrade with more Boeing 737 flights, adding over 6,000 seats monthly from November 2025. This expansion aims to meet growing demand and enhance passenger comfort.
Alistair Hartley, Virgin Australia’s Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, explained the importance of these routes for regional travelers.
“Our commitment to regional Queensland is clear. These routes are vital for commuters, and our larger Boeing 737s allow us to offer a better product with more seats and improved connectivity,” Hartley said.
He added that as the airline modernizes its fleet with next-generation aircraft, it can optimize its network, moving away from partner-operated services to directly managed flights. This shift aligns Virgin Australia’s operations with pre-COVID levels for these key regional hubs, providing greater value and choice for passengers.
Positive Step for North Queensland
The move has been praised by local stakeholders. Adam Rowe, Chief Commercial Officer at Queensland Airports Limited added comment on the move. He described it as a positive step for North and North West Queensland.
“Flights between Brisbane, Townsville, and Mount Isa are in high demand, with many services fully booked. Virgin Australia’s decision to use larger aircraft and add capacity meets this need while offering an enhanced travel experience,” Rowe noted.
He highlighted the airline’s role in ensuring these regions remain well-connected and poised for future growth.
Claudia Brumme-Smith, CEO of Townsville Enterprise, also welcomed the announcement. “Virgin Australia’s decision to upgrade aircraft on the Brisbane to Townsville route shows their confidence in North Queensland’s growth,” she said.
The additional 6,000 seats per month will not only improve connectivity but also deliver significant economic benefits. “This upgrade is expected to inject between $1.5 million and $3 million monthly into the local economy,” Brumme-Smith explained.
“More seats mean more visitors, stronger tourism, and better access for business travelers and residents who rely on this route.”
Conclusion
The increased capacity and modern aircraft will make travel more convenient and comfortable for Queenslanders. For Mount Isa, the Boeing 737s bring a new level of service with dual-class cabins, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
For Townsville, the extra seats will support the region’s busiest air route, fostering tourism and economic growth.
Virgin Australia’s investment reflects a broader strategy to strengthen regional connectivity while meeting the evolving needs of its passengers.
This expansion underscores Virgin Australia’s role as a key player in Queensland’s aviation landscape.
By prioritizing larger, more modern aircraft, the airline is ensuring that regional communities stay connected to major hubs, supporting both economic development and local livelihoods.
