Bonza’s first aircraft arrives

BONZA’S first aircraft touched down in Australia on Monday, marking a major milestone for the independent budget airline.

The airline, which will offer flights between Mildura and Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast, is preparing its aircraft while awaiting regulatory approval, which could come as soon as late-September.

The first aircraft landed at Bonza’s base, the Sunshine Coast Airport, on Monday morning and is the first Boeing 737 MAX to be based in Australia.

Bonza said the aircraft would be part of a fleet of brand new and fuel-efficient aircraft based initially on the Sunshine Coast and in Melbourne.

Bonza chief executive Tim Jordan said the team was “beyond excited” to welcome the first aircraft.

“With so much buzz around the country for Bonza, we hope today is also exciting for the communities we’ll be flying to,” he said.

“We are now one important step closer to connecting more Australians with convenient, low-cost travel options to more destinations for holidays and to visit loved ones.

The airline is currently calling for people to help name the plane by commenting on Bonza’s social media pages.

Bonza recently selected a ‘Local Legend’ from each of the 17 flight destinations to promote travel to each region.

Mildura’s Local Legend is Tess Thompson, a Mildura mother, Pilates teacher and myotherapist.

Bonza stated that Ms Thompson would be helping the airline name the new plane and taste-test items on the all-Aussie on-board menu, which may feature some Mildura produce or wine.