Still to be launched Bonza has released an open letter to Aussies giving them an update on why Australia’s latest budget airline is delaying its take-off date by another two months.
The jovial letter, penned by Carly Povey – the airline’s Chief Commercial Officer (“otherwise known as all things customer”), explains they are “progressing well” towards going on sale but recommends people shouldn’t wait for them to book their essential July and August flights.
“The response we’ve had since announcing our initial 17 destinations and 27 routes has been nothing but Bonza! No, seriously. I know you’re keen to grab your cozzies and gather your rellies all for less than a tank of fuel. So, it’s only fair to give you an update on how we’re tracking.
“After all, you can’t be called Bonza and not be fair dinkum,” the letter reads.
“We’re getting closer to take-off, which means we’re getting clearer on potential start dates. Having this locked in is key to going on sale with our first wave of flights. One key input is that we now have confirmation of when our first aircraft will touch down on Aussie shores.
“This is slightly later than first expected but gives us the clarity we need to map out the in-country process that starts once they touch down. In short, we’re making good progress and in the coming weeks, I will provide further updates.
“The letter aims to set the tone of a refreshingly open consumer brand that doesn’t leave customers hanging,” commented Povey.
She went on to explain the work going on behind the scenes to get ready for take-off including the regulatory process, recruitment, uniforms, menus and interiors of the aircraft.
The communication also makes it clear that the only place to book directly is the FlyBonza App.
There will be no bookings on the website and instead, Bonza will adopt a model similar to Uber where all bookings, payments, management of booking and customer communications are direct to travellers from the app.
Povey explains why in the letter, including that the app helps to keep fares and carbon emissions low – enabling Bonza to pass on the savings to customers who can expect to pay around $50 for every hour they’re in the air.
Povey has also committed to personally answer any questions on the Bonza Facebook and Instagram pages this week which at the time of writing, appeared mostly to be positive.
Commenting on Facebook, Ingrid Duane, a Sunshine Coast Airport Ambassador said “Carly just passing on the disappointment that you guys are delayed for so long. Working at the info desk at the Airport we are constantly bombarded with tourists wanting to leave from here. There will be so many disappointed people, as I am sure you must be.”
At this stage, it’s estimated that the first Bonza flights could take off in September or October 2022.
For more, head to www.flybonza.com