Jetstar has launched the first-ever Brisbane to Rarotonga flight connecting Queensland and the Cook Islands, marking another milestone in its growing international network.
The inaugural service departed Brisbane at 10.20pm 18 May 2026 and just over six hours later, touched down in tropical paradise. Customers onboard were excited to experience Rarotonga’s white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and famously relaxed island atmosphere.
“Brisbane has long been the gateway to our neighbours in the Pacific and it’s great to see that continued connectivity with the addition of this new route,” Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said. “Welcoming a new international service is always an exciting milestone, particularly at a time when global conditions continue to challenge aviation.
“Brisbane continues to gain momentum as a resilient and fast-growing hub, and this new route capitalises on the strong demand for travel by Queenslanders. This new route will give Queenslanders direct access to the Cook Islands and their warm hospitality, tropical climate and vibrant island culture.”
Cook Islander first officer
Adding a special moment to the historic flight, Jetstar First Officer Rob Woonton, a proud Cook Islander, was on the flight deck piloting a meaningful homecoming service.
“Being born and raised in the Cook Islands, bringing a full flight of excited travellers home to Rarotonga is a real honour,” Jetstar first officer Rob Woonton said. “I’m proud this new route will reconnect families and give more Australians the chance to experience the beauty, warmth and spirit of our islands.”
To celebrate the inaugural flight, Jetstar is holding a 48‑hour First Flight Sale, with fares starting from $255, on sale from midday Monday 18 May 2026.
The new route is part of Jetstar’s broader expansion, supported by the arrival of its new, fuel-efficient A321neo LR aircraft. These aircraft are enabling Jetstar to offer more low fares and open new international routes, helping more people take off more often, for less.
“Rarotonga is a stunning destination, and Queenslanders have jumped at the chance to reach this island paradise on this new direct service,” Jetstar executive manager, customer and digital Pru McKenzie said.
“As we continue to grow our international network, we’re focused on delivering even more low-fares and more great experiences, giving customers more chances to take off, for less. We’re excited to work with our partners, including the Cook Islands Government, to bring this beautiful island closer to more Australians.”
Island escape
As the only airline flying direct to Rarotonga from both Sydney and Brisbane, Jetstar is making it easier than ever for Australians to swap the everyday for an island escape.
The Cook Islands has quickly become one of the most talked about destinations for Australian travellers. Recent visitor data shows Australians now make up a quarter of all arrivals to the Cook Islands, forecast to grow to 28 per cent this year, with 98 per cent of travellers recommending the destination and 93 per cent planning to return – highlighting its rapid rise as one of the region’s most loved island escapes.
Cook Islands prime minister Mark Brown said the inaugural flight is significant for the nation.
Having Jetstar flights from Sydney has been fantastic, he said, but the addition of three flights per week from Brisbane makes it that much easier for Queenslanders (and all Cook Islands diaspora) to reach the tropical paradise.
“Tourism is the backbone of the Cook Island’s economy, contributing approximately 75 per cent of the country’s GDP,” Brown said. “This will provide a major boost to our tourism sector and the financial impact for local tourism operators and the nation will be very positive.
“We are delighted that Jetstar is making this commitment to the Cook Islands, and Cook Islanders are always ready to welcome Australian visitors with open arms and warm smiles.”
