Jetstar will today operate its inaugural service between Newcastle and Hobart, marking the first time the two cities have ever been connected by air.
Flight JQ489 is set to depart Newcastle Airport this afternoon with more than 160 passengers onboard. The new seasonal route will run three return services a week until 21 April 2026, operated by the airline’s A320 fleet and adding more than 22,000 low-cost seats to the market.
To mark the launch, Jetstar has included the new route in its Cyber Monday Fare Frenzy, offering one-way fares from $59 until 11:59pm tonight. Other Newcastle routes on sale include Brisbane from $29, Gold Coast from $29, Melbourne from $56 and Bali (Denpasar) from $215.
The expansion follows Jetstar’s restart of international flying from Newcastle six weeks ago, with four flights a week to Bali and onward connections to Singapore. Combined with its existing domestic network to Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast and Melbourne, Jetstar now operates more than 770,000 seats a year in and out of Newcastle.
Jetstar’s Executive Manager Commercial, Lyle Brownscombe, said the carrier was proud to deliver a historic connection for the Hunter.
“This is the first time Newcastle and Hobart have ever been connected by air, and we’re thrilled to be making this route a reality,” he said. “Hunter residents can now reach Tasmania’s wilderness, food and wine experiences without connecting through other cities – saving time and money.
“This service will also boost tourism across Newcastle and the Hunter, allowing more visitors to experience the region’s stunning beaches and world-class wineries.”
Newcastle Airport CEO, Linc Horton, said the route supports the airport’s evolution into a national and international hub.
“Today’s inaugural flight strengthens our region’s access to the places that matter,” Horton said. “The direct connection to Hobart is a key destination and we thank Jetstar for its continued confidence in our region.”
Hobart Airport COO, Matt Cocker, said the new service opens up a major catchment for Tasmania.
“The Newcastle route unlocks the largest population area in Australia we weren’t flying to directly,” he said. “Flying direct rather than via Sydney will appeal to a lot of holiday-makers.”
Tourism Tasmania’s Director of Access and Aviation, Steve Farquer, said the state is ready to welcome new visitors.
“From wilderness walks and pristine beaches to vineyards, distilleries and museums, Tasmania offers drawcard experiences unlike anywhere else,” he said.
