en.Wedoany.com Reported - Sharp Airlines will launch direct flights from Launceston to King Island, Australia, starting May 1st. The service will operate every Tuesday and Thursday, complementing existing flights via Burnie, and will reduce one-way travel time from 95 minutes to 55 minutes.

Sharp Airlines CEO Alistair Dorward stated that this direct Launceston to King Island route is "a real step forward" for the company's King Island services. He mentioned that the company has listened to community needs and aims to establish a faster and more efficient connection between King Island and Launceston.

Dorward said the new route will improve travel experiences for residents and tourists while strengthening business, tourism, and freight connectivity. Launceston Airport also expressed its welcome for Sharp Airlines launching the first direct flight from Launceston Airport to King Island, stating that it will enhance connectivity.

An airport spokesperson stated that the new route will provide faster connections for passengers and cargo traveling to King Island, as well as onward transfer opportunities for passengers traveling to and from mainland Australian state capitals. With the expansion of Launceston Airport's domestic flight schedule, connections for routes such as King Island, Launceston, and direct flights to King Island will become more direct.

Previously, Sharp had indicated it might cancel its Melbourne (Essendon) to King Island service and suspend advance bookings beyond this month. In February, Dorward stated that further flights between Melbourne and King Island after late April 2026 would no longer be available for sale; if Sharp ultimately withdraws from this route, the Melbourne-King Island service will primarily be operated by Rex Airlines from Tullamarine. However, Sharp currently appears to still maintain flights from Essendon to Melbourne-Flinders Island, as well as services from Burnie and Launceston to King Island.

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