Virgin Australia today announced that it will commence services between Perth and Paraburdoo in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, bringing competition to the route for the first time.

Effective 21 November 2013, Virgin Australia will operate return services between Perth and Paraburdoo every Thursday and Friday, operated by the 100-seat Fokker 100 aircraft.

Virgin Australia Group Executive of Regional Operations, Merren McArthur said: “Paraburdoo is one of Australia’s largest mining centres and has been a monopoly route up until now. We are delighted to be supporting the local community by bringing strong competition to the region.

“Our new Western Australia-based regional operation enables us to quickly identify and respond to growth opportunities such as this one and to bring benefits to businesses and communities throughout regional Australia.

“Following our recent increases to Karratha-Perth services, we now operate around 100 flights in and out of the Pilbara region per week.

“We fly to more destinations in Western Australia than any other airline and we will continue to look for opportunities to expand Virgin Australia’s presence in this important market”, Ms McArthur said.

Virgin Australia’s regional operation has 32 aircraft in its fleet and operates over 750 services per week.

Tickets are for sale from today through travel agents and the Guest Contact Centre on 13 67 89 and from 1 November through http://www.virginaustralia.com .