Eye on the sky as flurry of flights launch from Port Macquarie

FlyPelican officially launched its twice weekly Port Macquarie direct to Canberra service on November 1.

FlyPelican CEO, Marty Hawley said the airline is thrilled to expand its network, out of the nation's capital to connect with Port Macquarie.

Direct flights will operate initially every Thursday and Sunday afternoon. Port Macquarie will be the ninth destination added to the growing FlyPelican network and it will be the third destination from Canberra Airport.

The FlyPelican service comes after Qantas stepped in and boosted flights to Brisbane following Virgin Australia's suspension of services in the region.

Virgin will operate on a code-sharing agreement only when Alliance Airlines resumes its Port Macquarie service.

Eastern Air Services offers direct flights to Lord Howe Island.

Qantas' is now ready to increase its flying from this week following the Queensland Government's decision to open its borders to regional New South Wales.

The national carrier will commence its new route between Port Macquarie and Brisbane on November 18.

Flights will be operated up to five times weekly with the airline's Q400 turboprop aircraft, adding more than 700 seats on the route each week.

"While Friday's borders announcement was not the one our people, the tourism industry or travellers had been waiting for, we're pleased to be able to add some more flights back into our schedule," a Qantas spokesperson said.

"This increased flying helps get more of our people back into the air, maintain travel options for regional communities and drive much-needed tourism.

"We expect the new flights to Port Macquarie will be popular with Queensland travellers looking to visit the beautiful coastal town so we're pleased the easing of travel restrictions has made this possible."

The increase interest from airlines wanting a presence in Port Macquarie is a positive sign for the region's recovery from COVID.

Council director Rebecca Olsen said how great it is to see flights increase in and out of Port Macquarie Airport.

"Having regular services is so important for our community, business and tourism, and not only provides opportunities and options for travel, helps get people back to work," Ms Olsen said.

"With the doubling of Qantas flights to Sydney, and Fly Pelican flights connecting us with our nation's capital, these are really positive signs for our community as we continue our recovery from the challenges that COVID has presented."

Meanwhile, Rex Airlines has thrown its hat into the ring and had discussions with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council about flight services for the region.

Rex called for expressions of interest from communities which have been impacted by the suspension of by Virgin Australia routes and confirmed it has been progressing discussions with several cities including Geraldton, Port Macquarie and Canberra.

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