Service on the route, initially known as the Q12A, began on June 4, 1950, following a request made by Queens Borough President Maurice A. FitzGerald. In 1990, the route was renumbered the Q79.
The provision of service on this line commenced on June 4, 1950, under its original title as the Q12A, initiated by Queens Borough President Maurice A. FitzGerald. Ten years later, in 1990, the route underwent a change in designation to become the Q79.