Tourism Central Australia and the Northern Territory have launched a new campaign offering free interstate flights to Alice Springs, but there is a catch: travellers must stay in the town for at least two nights. The initiative, dubbed Fly Free to Alice, aims to boost tourism in the Red Centre by removing the cost of airfare, one of the biggest barriers to visiting the remote region.
Details of the Offer
The campaign reimburses travellers up to $750 for their airfare, covering departures from Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Sydney. To qualify, travellers must purchase a featured holiday package through NT Now or Australian retail travel agents. More than twenty itineraries are available, including sunrise balloon flights, outback horse trekking, and camel rides.
Bookings are open from now until 30 November 2026, unless sold out earlier, with travel valid between 1 August 2026 and 31 January 2027. The offer is on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limited number of tickets subsidised by the tourist board.
Addressing Reputation Concerns
Alice Springs has faced challenges attracting tourists due to its reputation for criminal activity and anti-social behaviour. The town was listed among the world’s most dangerous places in the 2024 Crime Index by City, published by data website Numbeo, ranking alongside Tijuana and Cape Town. However, the tourist board is hoping to change perceptions and encourage more visitors this summer.
Tourism Central Australia CEO Danial Rochford said the campaign focuses on helping travellers discover what Central Australia actually has to offer. “Fly Free to Alice removes one of the biggest barriers to travel and allows visitors to put more of their holiday budget into what they’re actually coming here for — more nights on the ground, local experiences and discovering more of Central Australia,” Mr Rochford said.
Impact on Local Tourism
The campaign is expected to inject much-needed revenue into the local economy, which has suffered from a decline in visitor numbers. By offering free flights, the tourist board hopes to attract a wider range of travellers, including those from Western Australia and the eastern states. The two-night minimum stay ensures that visitors spend time exploring the region, supporting local businesses such as hotels, tour operators, and restaurants.
