Virgin Australia has jumped in to assist customers stranded by beleaguered rival Bonza’s suspension of flights, as the Queensland-based budget airline faces collapse. Hundreds of travellers are likely to have been impacted by Bonza’s decision to cancel services from airports across the country on Tuesday morning. Virgin was the first airline to move on impacted customers, offering free flights to those left in limbo.
” Federal Transport Minister Catherine King said Qantas also “stand ready” to assist people “needing to get home”. “My department has reached out to Bonza and our expectation is that they keep passengers informed of their options and their consumer rights,” she said. Qantas has been contacted for comment. Flights suspended on Tuesday include those to or from Melbourne, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, Launceston, Alice Springs and others.