Australian low-cost airline Bonza, which started operations just 15 months ago, has suddenly ceased all flying and entered administration.

Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Jetstar have all offered to accommodate stranded Bonza passengers on a space-available basis on their flights.

You can access Bonza here.

Bonza’s announcement:

Update 30 April 2024:

Bonza has temporarily suspended services due to be operated today (Tuesday 30th April), as discussions are currently underway regarding the ongoing viability of the business. We apologise to our customers who are impacted by this and we’re working as quickly as possible to determine a way forward that ensures there is ongoing competition in the Australian domestic aviation market.

Qantas offer for Bonza passengers:

STATEMENT ON SUPPORT FOR BONZA CUSTOMERS

We understand today’s news about Bonza will have a significant impact on many people’s travel plans.

For Bonza customers who are due to travel today or who are stuck away from home, Jetstar and Qantas will assist by providing flights at no cost where there are seats available.

Of Bonza’s 36 routes, there are only six overlapping routes with either Jetstar or Qantas:

1. Melbourne – Gold Coast (Jetstar)
2. Melbourne – Sunshine Coast (Jetstar)
3. Avalon – Gold Coast (Jetstar)
4. Gold Coast – Cairns (Jetstar)
5. Melbourne – Mildura (QantasLink)
6. Melbourne – Alice Springs (Qantas)

If there is another close alternative route that Jetstar or Qantas operates, customers who were booked to travel today or are stuck away from home can also travel at no cost (e.g. Brisbane as an alternative to Gold Coast, or Melbourne as an alternative to Avalon).

Bonza customers can contact Jetstar on Live Chat or 13 15 38, or Qantas on 13 13 13 to book these seats.

We’re continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates of any additional support for Bonza customers.

Virgin Australia’s accommodation policy:

We are aware of the temporary suspension of Bonza flights.

We will immediately support any passengers stranded mid-journey by offering complimentary seats on Virgin Australia-operated flights to the airport nearest to their final planned Bonza destination.
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— Virgin Australia (@VirginAustralia) April 29, 2024

Conclusion

Bonza joins the long list of Australian airlines that have folded.

There is the long-running joke of what is the fastest way to become a millionaire? Start with a billion and launch an airline.

Qantas and its Jetstar arm dominate Australian aviation market.

Virgin Australia entered administration during the pandemic, ceased all long-haul flying, and handed back wide-body planes. It was then resurrected as a domestic airline with the help of Bain, a private equity shop. It has since restarted regional flying.

Source

John Ollila