Having closed their borders a year ago, Australia and New Zealand have finally established a two-way quarantine free ‘travel bubble’.
This is an important milestone for both countries as they have not been able to travel freely between the two nations since early 2020.
Thousands of passengers were booked to fly between the two nations throughout the day (Monday 19th April).
Qantas, Jetstar and Air New Zealand are flying between the two nations reuniting loved ones and businesses.
The airlines will operate a combined 29 flights between Australia and New Zealand, with around 200 flights to operate each week.
“Quarantine-free travel has been almost 400 days in the making. Reopening these flights across the Tasman is a very important milestone in the recovery from the pandemic for Australia and New Zealand but also aviation and tourism,” said Mr Joyce, Qantas Group CEO.
“The opening of the two-way bubble is fantastic for the family and friends who are reuniting after so long apart and for the many jobs which are so heavily dependent on tourism. It means we’ll be able to get more planes back in the sky and more of our people back to work.”
Australian prime minister Scott Morrison said: “Today’s milestone is a win-win for Australians and New Zealanders, boosting our economies while keeping our people safe and just in time for ANZAC Day.”
His New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern said: “It is truly exciting to start quarantine-free travel with Australia. Be it returning family, friends or holiday makers, New Zealand says welcome and enjoy yourself.”
Kia Ora Australia and New Zealand, the rest of the world hopes to see you soon!
