New player on inter-city air route

The most popular air route in Australia is about to get even busier with another budget airline announcing it is to start flying between Melbourne and Sydney.

Melbourne-based Tiger Airways is expanding its Australian operations - four flights a day will run between the cities from July 3.

Tiger Airways Australia managing director Shelley Roberts said the new route had been long anticipated and was a result of travellers' feedback.

"More people than ever will be able to travel between the two destinations more often and for the first time at consistently low fares," Roberts said.

"This is particularly pleasing at a time when some other airlines are cutting schedules and, in comparison, Tiger Airways is adding to its network."

Victorian Minister for Industry and Trade Martin Pakula said the announcement showed confidence in Victoria's economy.

"These new flights will help to secure and create greatly needed jobs in tourist facilities across Victoria."

- AAP