With more Tasman capacity coming on-line and strong demand on its new Gold Coast route, Qantas is looking to work with the Kiwi trade to further grow its Tasman business.
The carrier’s Auckland to Coolangatta route is exceeding expectations, thanks in part to strong support from the Kiwi retail travel distribution. “We’re very happy with the support from the trade, and the day of the week change from a Sat to Sun has been very well received,” says QF’s Rebecca Slee, who adds that QF is looking to further increase trade awareness of the GC’s diverse product. “Last week we launched an OOL incentive offering 12 agents the chance to win a place on one of three famils that each showcase the region in different lights; there’s something for everyone.” See more details HERE
. . . ADL & PER
The carrier’s Adelaide seasonal service resumes from 30 Oct, operating four times a week (Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon), ideally timed for a short break.
“[ADL] is perfect for a long weekend,” says Slee. “Fly to ADL on a Fri afternoon, and come home Mon morning, and eligible clients can enjoy the new Qantas lounges in both Auckland and Adelaide.”
In addition QF’s A330s which operate its Auckland to Perth services are now all fitted with 56 Economy Plus seats in the first eight rows of economy. “The Economy Plus seats have up to 40% more leg room than standard economy and include priority group one boarding and dedicated overhead bag space.”
Overall Slee says QF’s free and fast wifi is generating ‘phenomenal feedback’, and she reminds agents to urge clients to download the QF entertainment app if they’re travelling with their own devices to access a wider range of content.
. . . NDC Progress
Slee reminds consultants that bookings made via NDC are eligible for free seat selection with a QF Frequent Flyer membership number.
And on the NDC front, she says that ‘based on the feedback from the First Travel Group conference at the weekend, the [NDC] sentiment is changing’. “So many of our agents are giving it a go, starting with a basic itinerary, point to point and realising the benefits for their customers when using premium NDC.”
. . . Last Chance
QF is hosting an Oct regional roadshow, and agent registrations close tomorrow. See details HERE.
