Qantas Ends Perth to Busselton Flights: A Low Demand Challenge
Qantas has announced that it will cease its flight operations between Perth (PER) and Busselton (BQB) effective October 6, 2025, due to consistently low demand. This route was inaugurated on June 27, 2025, featuring three flights per week.
Flight Launch and Performance
Initial projections anticipated the service would transport over 15,000 passengers annually. However, average load factors were recorded at less than 20%, underperforming expectations. The return flight tickets were priced at approximately AUD 450, deemed high by prospective customers.
Route Suspension Decision
The decision to terminate the route was made after just over three months of operation. Qantas cited passenger numbers falling below projections despite promotional efforts. Furthermore, the Western Australian government’s Aviation Recovery Fund financially supported this service.
Local travel agents reported minimal interest, with some receiving no inquiries. A consultant from Busselton noted only a single client utilizing the route, leading to regional disappointment concerning anticipated connectivity and economic benefits for South West WA.
Route Performance Metrics
The flights operated at under 20% capacity, insufficient for sustainability. Qantas projected an annual seat availability of 31,000 for the Perth-Busselton service. High prices and competition with road travel also impacted demand.
- Customers can rebook or request refunds following Qantas’s policies.
- Jetstar continues its Busselton services from Sydney and Melbourne.
For those affected by the cancellation, the airline has detailed its commercial policy for ticket changes and refunds. Refund requests require submission via BSPlink or ARC, referencing the authority in the commercial policy.
Considerations for Future Operations
It has been suggested that launching during the winter months might have negatively impacted the route’s appeal, with peak tourism seasons occurring later. The improved Wilman Wadandi Highway, reducing road travel time, may have also diminished interest in air travel.
Future reinstatement efforts would require evaluation of pricing, scheduling, and marketing strategies by Qantas and regional leaders. Passenger preferences, regional infrastructure, and tourism prospects remain influential factors.
