Uluru to receive significant tourism boost with new Virgin Australia flights

With Virgin Australia now flying direct to Uluru from Melbourne four times a week and Brisbane three times a week, there is an expectation for Central Australia to experience a significant tourism boost.

The new routes were secured in partnership with Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia and the NT Government through the Territory Government’s Territory Aviation Attraction Scheme (TAAS).

Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia Chief Executive, Matt Cameron-Smith enthused “to see Virgin Australia planes touching down in Uluṟu again is a huge thrill - this is a landmark moment that underscores the boundless appeal of the Red Centre.

“We’re excited to have even more visitors experience the wonders of Uluṟu, along with culturally-immersive experiences like Sunrise Journeys and Wintjiri Wiṟu, through Virgin Australia's extensive network."

The first of two new services landed in the Red Centre direct from Melbourne last night (Thursday) with Queensland passengers arriving in Uluru today.

The TAAS is a cooperative scheme open to airports in Darwin, Alice Springs and Uluru to create new and extra capacity routes while providing additional choice for NT residents, Territory workers, and visiting family and friends.

The world heritage listed Uluru is one of the world’s most famous natural wonders and a must-see for visitors.

Tourism is an important economic driver in the Territory contributing $2.2 billion to the NT economy and supporting a total of 16,300 workers. Aboriginal tourism contributed around $383 million in 2021-22 and supports around 1,440 tourism workers.

NT Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Joel Bowden noted “the commencement of Virgin Australia’s service to Uluru will make it more accessible for Australian and international tourists to visit the region, which supports Central Australia’s tourism growth, creates jobs and generates new expenditure in the region.”

Virgin Australia Chief Executive Jayne Hrdlicka added “Uluru is an incredibly important destination for Virgin Australia as one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in this country and a much-loved place for holiday makers to visit from all over the world.”

Image. Culturally-immersive experience Wintjiri Wiṟu at ULURU. Credit: Ayers Rock Resort