QantasLink has introduced morning flights from Ballina Byron Gateway Airport to Sydney, giving Northern Rivers travellers a faster and more convenient way to reach the city.
This new service will operate six days a week Monday to Saturday with a 7.45am departure time designed to meet the needs of Northern Rivers business travellers, with flights returning from Sydney that evening.
This convenient departure time gets you into Sydney just after 9am - ideal for business travellers who want to make the most of the day, without the stress, extra cost, or long drive to Brisbane or the Gold Coast airports, and without needing to stay overnight in Sydney.
From Monday 24 November 2025, the service will be expanded to include a second daily flight departing at 11.20am, bringing the total to 13 flights per week. This will provide enhanced frequency and connectivity options for both business and leisure markets including forward connecting domestic and international flights.
"These new QantasLink services are a terrific boost for our region," said Ballina Shire Council Mayor Sharon Cadwallader. "They offer greater convenience and flexibility for locals, helping our community stay connected to Sydney and beyond, while supporting the growth of our local economy and tourism industry."
A QantasLink spokesperson said, "We've made a number of changes to our schedule between Ballina and Sydney to provide more convenience and choice for local residents.
"This includes adding more flights, adjusting our schedule to make it easier for locals to travel to Sydney for day trips, and improving connection times for a number of Qantas international flights, including to Hong Kong, Tokyo and Dallas."
The new QantasLink service strengthens Ballina Byron Gateway Airport's position as the third busiest airport in NSW behind Sydney and Newcastle.
In 2024, close to 630,000 passengers passed through the airport, demonstrating the strong demand for air services in the Northern Rivers region spanning from Tweed to Yamba.
Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Manager Julie Stewart said Ballina Shire Council has been working with QantasLink to restore these services.
"The timing allows for productive same-day return trips to Sydney and our upcoming increased schedule demonstrates our commitment to improving connectivity for all travellers to and from the region," said Ms Stewart. "With the added benefit of cost-effective and convenient terminal parking, the airport offers a smooth and hassle-free experience for our flyers."
Bookings for the new services are now available through Qantas.com
Departing Flight Schedule:
