Bonza Expects Swift Resolution for Wet-Lease Regulatory Hurdles, Eyes Gold Coast Expansion

Australia’s Bonza is optimistic about resolving regulatory challenges within approximately seven days, signaling a potential revival of its Gold Coast Coolangatta base. The low-cost carrier faced setbacks, including flight cancellations and route launch delays, after scheduling operations with two wet-leased B737-8s from Canada’s Flair Airlines before securing necessary approvals from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

Bonza CEO Tim Jordan acknowledged the situation last week, stating, “Our Gold Coast base is due to be operated by our partner Flair in the short term.” He explained that the partnership triggered a distinct regulatory approval process with CASA, which is still in progress. Consequently, the airline made the regrettable decision to defer flights to/from Gold Coast to various destinations, including Darwin, Bundaberg, Gladstone, Melbourne Avalon, Cairns, Proserpine, and Mildura.

Insiders suggest that Bonza anticipates obtaining the required approvals by the end of the following week. Meanwhile, one of Flair’s B737-8s is parked at Gold Coast Coolangatta, while the second remains in service with Flair until CASA grants the green light. Despite the regulatory hurdles, the transition and deployment of the aircraft in Australia are expected to be swift once approval is secured.

Bonza initially launched its Gold Coast Coolangatta base in mid-November, strategically timed for the peak summer holiday season. The airline aimed to capitalize on the region’s popularity as a holiday destination by announcing twelve new routes. However, due to the regulatory delay, some routes were temporarily suspended, frequencies adjusted, and Bonza relied on a wet-leased B737 from Nauru Airlines as a stopgap solution.

The challenges prompted nimble actions from Nauru Airlines, utilizing interchangeably B737-700 and B737-300 aircraft to cover for Bonza on routes such as Gold Coast Coolangatta – Townsville, Gold Coast Coolangatta – Rockhampton, and Gold Coast Coolangatta – Launceston. A spokesperson from Nauru Airlines emphasized their agility in responding to last-minute wet-lease requests. As Bonza anticipates regulatory clearance, the airline aims to swiftly resume operations and capitalize on the peak holiday season.