By James Wilkinson

Conference venues in Western Australia have been given a significant boost today (Aug 4), following this afternoon’s inaugural Perth-Port Hedland flight by Virgin Blue.

Virgin Blue has taken off for Pt Hedland
Pic: Paul Sadler

The inaugural flight, which departs Perth at 4:10pm and arrives in Port Hedland at 6:15pm (WA time) today, signals the start of daily Virgin Blue flights between the two cities and continues the airline’s strong push into the WA regional market.

“We have made no secret that regional WA is a big focus for us this year and we are pleased to be launching flights to Port Hedland today that will no doubt bring some great fares and great service to a region that will greatly benefit for having a second airline option,” said Virgin Blue CEO Brett Godfrey.

According to the airline, it was the efforts of the local council that secured Virgin Blue’s new services and Godfrey has applauded Town of Port Hedland Mayor Cr Stan Martin and his team for their energy and enthusiasm in campaigning for Port Hedland to bringing competitive air services to the town.

To celebrate the launch, a sale fare of $99 one way is currently available online until 10am on August 6 for travel between September 1-23 September and October 13 – December 10, 2009.