For the first time in history, Virgin Australia has commenced flights between Melbourne and the nation's Spiritual Heartland, Uluru. The airline's inaugural Brisbane-Uluru service will take flight tomorrow.

In partnership with the Northern Territory Government and Voyages Indigenous Tourism (operators of Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru), these new services will add 62,000 seats to the Red Centre annually, supporting the growth of the Indigenous tourism sector, which contributes nearly $6 billion to the national visitor economy.

The increased access and tourism will also benefit Indigenous employment and training at Ayers Rock Resort, where over 30 percent of the workforce identifies as Indigenous or Torres Strait Islander, making it one of the largest Indigenous employers in the Australian tourism sector.

Connecting the World to Uluru

Virgin Australia's Uluru services will create a new convenient gateway for travelers from Victoria and Queensland, connecting one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks to over 600 cities globally through Virgin Australia's codeshare partnerships with major airlines, including Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and United Airlines. Codeshare flights to Uluru will allow international tourists to travel on a single ticket, ensuring a seamless journey to the Red Centre.

The flights will be operated using Virgin Australia's Boeing 737 aircraft, accommodating up to 182 passengers per flight, with options in Business Class, Economy X (extra legroom Economy), and Economy.

Uluru Sale for 72-Hours Only

To celebrate Virgin Australia’s new Uluru services from Melbourne and Brisbane, the airline has launched a significant sale, offering fares from just $119 one-way until 11:59 pm AEST on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Ayers Rock Resort is also offering accommodation starting at $230 per night for stays of three nights or longer, including complimentary buffet breakfast for two.

Velocity Frequent Flyer’s 12 million members can use 9,400 Velocity Points for a one-way flight to Uluru, allowing Australian travelers to enjoy the cultural hotspot without cash.

Celebrity Guests and First Nations Artists Headline Celebrations

Australian World Music Star and renowned First Nations entertainer, Mitch Tambo, will perform alongside First Nations DJ, SVVLO, at a special departure gate party at Melbourne Airport for 182 guests on the sold-out maiden flight.

Flight VA1681 will depart Melbourne at 12:30 pm, landing in Uluru at 3:40 pm local time. VIP guests will be escorted to a welcome event at Ayers Rock Resort's Wintjiri Wiru platform, featuring a performance by Platinum-selling ARIA award-winning singer Budjerah.

Business, sporting, lifestyle, and fashion personalities will join the first flight from Melbourne, including Rebecca Judd, Natalie Bassingthwaighte, Jett Kenny, and Michelle Bridges.

Commentary

Virgin Australia CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, said the launch of Virgin Australia's Uluru services marks a special milestone for the airline.

“Uluru is a critically important destination for Virgin Australia, being one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in Australia and a beloved destination for holidaymakers worldwide,” said Ms. Hrdlicka. “We are proud to connect Australians to Uluru, providing more value and choice to travelers. The return of Virgin Australia Uluru services is welcome news for our people, tourism partners, guests, and our 12 million Velocity members, who can now earn and redeem Points on these services.

“With partnerships with leading airlines like Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and United Airlines, we can now connect Uluru on a single ticket to over 600 cities globally, creating a new gateway for international tourists to explore Australia’s Red Centre,” she added.

Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia CEO, Matt Cameron-Smith, expressed excitement about Virgin Australia's services to Uluru. “Seeing Virgin Australia planes at Uluṟu again is a huge thrill. This is a landmark moment that highlights the boundless appeal of the Red Centre. We’re excited to welcome more visitors to experience Uluṟu's wonders and culturally immersive experiences through Virgin Australia's extensive network."

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NT Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Joel Bowden, welcomed Virgin Australia and its passengers to Uluru. “Palya! And welcome to Uluru. The Territory Government is delighted to have you here. Whether touring Uluru, enjoying sunrise or sunset, or experiencing Wintjiri Wiru, Uluru is the heart of the Territory’s Red Centre."

Melbourne Airport CEO, Lorie Argus, noted the new service's benefits. “This service provides convenient connections between Melbourne and Uluru, as well as from Tasmania, New South Wales, the ACT, and international destinations through our single terminal precinct. Virgin Australia flying this route is fantastic news, offering more choice and opportunities to explore Australia’s interior.”

Virgin Australia’s two new services to Uluru coincide with the Northern Territory’s peak tourism season (May to October).

ROUTE	FREQUENCY	SEATS PER MONTH (in each direction)	COMMENCEMENT DATE
Melbourne – Uluru	Up to 4 services per week (Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun)	Up to 3,100 seats (during peak season)	Thursday 6 June 2024
Brisbane – Uluru	3 services per week (Mon, Wed, Fri)	2,300+ seats	Friday 7 June 2024