Virgin Blue has commenced daily flights between Brisbane and Townsville as of today, bringing competitive discount fares to a major Queensland tourist route.

Better still, Virgin's intorductory internet-only discount fare of $99 is still available despite the original deadline having passed for the offer.

Fares at $99 are also available with Ansett and Qantas until March 31.

From April 1, Virgin and Ansett are offering their best fare at $118, available only on the internet. However, this remains a huge discount on the regular economy fare of $451.