Jetstar has announced it will add two new routes to their successful Canberra-Brisbane flight – a Canberra-Melbourne and a Canberra-Gold Coast service, starting later this year.
The announcement is a welcome vote of confidence in Canberra, according to ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr
“Later this year, Canberrans will be able to fly to both Melbourne and the Gold Coast with Jetstar.
“From 1 July, the Melbourne-Canberra route will commence, followed by Gold Coast-Canberra in mid-September.
“Jetstar’s entry to the Canberra market in December last year made it cheaper and easier to travel to and from South East Queensland. The strong take up of this route by Canberrans and visitors alike has now provided the opportunity to work with the popular carrier to add more flights across their extensive network.”
Mr Barr said VisitCanberra would work with Jetstar on cooperative marketing campaigns to promote the new services and encourage more travellers to visit Canberra.
“Improving Canberra’s aviation links remains a key priority for the ACT Government during our city’s economic recovery. This increase in visitors to Canberra supports local business and helps generate jobs,” he said.
Jetstar Group CEO, Gareth Evans said the expansion of flights to and from Canberra was a significant milestone for Jetstar, having just launched its first ever flight to the ACT in December.
“We’re excited to add an additional two routes into Canberra, following the success of our Brisbane-Canberra flights which took off only a few months ago,” Mr Evans said.
“The Canberra region has a huge amount to offer visitors with blockbuster exhibitions and world-class museums and galleries as well as lots of activities for school groups.
“Canberra is also the gateway to Thredbo, one of Australia’s most sought-after ski and mountain-biking destinations, which will be popular with Melburnians.
“For Canberrans, having a low-fares direct service to the Gold Coast will be welcome news, with the region consistently ranked as one of Australia’s most popular family holiday destinations. And the restaurants, shopping and sporting events in Melbourne offer a great weekend getaway.
“We thank the ACT Government for their ongoing support in launching these new routes.”
