PRIVATE LOUNGE
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Tamworth Regional Council and QantasLink are hoping a new private lounge for the airline’s members will ensure more passengers are heading up, up and away.
Already 25 per cent of passengers on the Tamworth-Sydney route are eligible to enter the exclusive area and the airline is banking on the new lounge to sign up more, and also get extra bottoms on seats on the lucrative route.
The new lounge comes on the back of more flights which were added earlier this year, offering 4000 seats to and from Sydney on 72 flights a week.
Tamworth deputy mayor Russell Webb said it’s just another investment in the region.
“Hopefully this will bring more and more and more,” Cr Webb said.
“And make our airport more competitive and bring the dollars into our region. Things like this just make this a better place.”
The new Qantas Regional Lounge at the Tamworth Airport was launched yesterday, becoming only the second of its kind in NSW, and the 12th in Australia.
In front of dozens of local dignitaries, business leaders, QantasLink staff and frequent flyers, Qantas domestic executive customer experience manager Samantha Taranto said the airline is here for the long haul.
“This is a clear indication of the confidence we have in Tamworth,” Ms Taranto said.
“I think there is a huge demand for travel. It’s really promising.”
Head of domestic lounges, Nicholas Bull told The Leader Tamworth was an obvious choice for the second lounge outside of the big cities.
“The importance of the business and leisure market and the growth we’ve had recently. It’s a growth market,” Mr Bull said.
The new lounge is modelled on the Qantas Club lounges in capital cities, and the modern, sleek design also boasts a feature artwork by local artist, Warwick Keen.
Ms Taranto said the quiet space allows members a space to relax, with wireless internet, pay TV, reading material and complimentary food and drinks.
“I think enhancing your services builds loyalty. It’s been on the agenda for some time and we’re really excited,” she said.
The new lounge is only open to Qantas Club members and gold and platinum frequent flyers ahead of their flight.
![ENJOYING THE FACILITIES: Tamworth Business Chamber president Tim Coates, Travelworld's Renetta Coutman, Harvey World Travel's Philip Lyon and Tamworth regional councillor Warren Woodley get comfortable in the new surrounds. Photo: Geoff O’Neill 110713GOA10 ENJOYING THE FACILITIES: Tamworth Business Chamber president Tim Coates, Travelworld's Renetta Coutman, Harvey World Travel's Philip Lyon and Tamworth regional councillor Warren Woodley get comfortable in the new surrounds. Photo: Geoff O’Neill 110713GOA10](/images/transform/v1/resize/frm/storypad-7YjsyXB7ExBTuzGHT3fj6J/10cc3e8c-d1ec-4d0c-ac46-c93077df0352.jpg/w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)