QantasLink will commence services on two new Queensland routes -between Brisbane and Hervey Bay and Brisbane and Biloela - from 29 October 2006, subject to regulatory approvals.

Qantas Group General Manager Regional Airlines, Mr Narendra Kumar, said continuing growth in both regions had made the introduction of the new services possible. He said they would further expand QantasLink's network that already included 17 destinations in Queensland.

"As the gateway to Queensland's Fraser Coast, Hervey Bay has experienced considerable growth in recent years in terms of both population and its tourism sector," Mr Kumar said.

"QantasLink will operate 32 services each week between Brisbane and Hervey Bay, offering more than 56,000 seats a year and providing even greater access to the region's attractions.

"Our services will operate seven days a week and our proposed schedule, which will spread flights throughout the day, will suit both business and leisure travellers."

Mr Kumar said local mining projects around Biloela and the Banana Shire had also led to demand for increased air services in the region.

"We will operate 20 flights each week, Monday to Friday, and provide more than 30,000 seats each year, between Brisbane and Biloela. Operating in morning and evening peak periods, the services will be timed to meet the needs of business travellers in particular," he said.

QantasLink will operate Bombardier Dash 8 36-seat aircraft on both routes.

"The Dash 8 aircraft offers increased customer comfort including a pressurised cabin and an onboard restroom," Mr Kumar said.

Customers on these new services will have access to seamless transfers onto other Qantas and QantasLink flights, the network of Qantas Club lounges (where they are Qantas Club members) and they will be able to earn and redeem Qantas Frequent Flyer points.

The services will also offer complimentary refreshments, including tea, coffee, water, juice and snacks and a complimentary beer and wine service on all scheduled services after 4.00pm.

QantasLink currently operates more than 1850 flights each week, serving 48 destinations throughout Australia and employing more than 1,000 people.

Flight schedules and air fares for the new services will be announced in coming weeks.

The Qantas Group already operates four return Jetstar services between Sydney and Hervey Bay each week.