A popular airline has suspended direct flights from an Australian city to Bali, adding almost 10 hours to travel time.
Virgin Australia revealed flights from Adelaide to the beloved Aussie holiday destination have been cut after a delay in the delivery of 10 new planes.
The postponed delivery of the Boeing MAX planes has caused travel time from Adelaide through Virgin to soar to 14 hours as passengers are forced to get connecting flights and stop over in Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne.
The seasonal direct flight suspension will be in place until June 9 this year however, there is no official date set for when the direct service will be relaunched.
Virgin Australia stated any affected travellers can contact the support centre to arrange alternative travel plans or request a full refund.
A spokesperson from the airline told the Advertiser: “The continued suspension of this route is necessary to manage impacts to our international and domestic schedule as a result of the delayed delivery of new aircraft.”
“We acknowledge this decision will be disappointing for some guests, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience.
“Guests who wish to discuss alternative arrangements available to them. . . are encouraged to reach out to the Virgin Australia Guest Contact Centre on 136 789.”
Travellers hoping for a direct flight from Adelaide have to look at other options, such as Jetstar and Batik Air.
In March, Jetstar said it would increase its flight capacity between Darwin, Adelaide and Bali later in the year.
Jetstar’s executive manager Jenn Armor said: “We are adding more than 52,000 fare seats between the NT and four Australian capitals, and Bali will give Territorians greater choice and travel options over coming months.
“We’re incredibly excited to be flying the newest aircraft in our fleet, the Airbus A321neo LR, on the popular Darwin to Adelaide and Bali routes starting in August.”
Virgin’s direct flight from Adelaide to Bali was relaunched in 2022 due to the effects of Covid-19.
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