Budget Australian airline Bonza certified to fly amid push to reduce cost of domestic travel

Bonza is set to become the first major high-capacity airline to enter the Australian aviation market since Tigerair after the Civil Aviation Safety Authority announced its air operator’s certificate. Photograph: Tony Gough/Bonza airlines

Bonza, the long-delayed budget carrier that has promised low-cost airfares and purple budgie smugglers on board, has cleared the final step of regulatory approval and will soon begin selling tickets.

The Australian government hopes the aspiring airline’s entry into the market will help reduce domestic fares.