The NSW Aviation Attraction Fund (AAF) is backing the launch of a new seasonal flight from Hobart to Newcastle, connecting the two cities directly for the first time.
On 2 December, Jetstar will launch the seasonal route, which will operate three times a week from December to April.
Destination NSW is working with Jetstar and Hobart Airport to help promote the service.
The Government says the route will unlock access to new visitors for Newcastle and the Hunter, providing a boost for businesses and jobs throughout the region’s visitor economy.
“The Minns Labor Government is proud to have worked with Newcastle Airport and Jetstar to secure this new seasonal route, which will boost the local visitor economy and better link Tasmanians to Newcastle and the Hunter,” said Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Steve Kamper.
“The recently launched Visitor Economy Strategy sets out our vision to grow the NSW visitor economy to $91 billion in visitor expenditure by 2035, and increasing domestic aviation capacity will be instrumental in achieving this.
“The strategy outlines a need to add 8.5 million new airline seats to NSW airports to achieve our ambitions for the visitor economy and this new route from Hobart to Newcastle brings us one step closer to that.”
Newcastle Airport CEO, Linc Horton said the direct flights between Newcastle and Hobart are a big win for both regions.
“This connection links the Hunter with Tasmania’s capital, opening new opportunities for tourism, business and the wider economy, while giving our community easy access to Hobart’s culture and wilderness,” he said.
“More choice for our passengers is at the heart of what we do and Hobart adds another exciting destination to our growing network. With our international terminal now complete, the benefits are clear.
“We’ve launched direct flights to Perth with one-stop connections to Europe, Bali services take off on 21 October and now Hobart joins the network. And behind the scenes, we’re working hard to deliver even more exciting routes that matter to our region. It’s proof we’re delivering the airport this region deserves – one that makes travel easy and opens doors at home and abroad.”
Jetstar CEO, Stephanie Tully, thanked the Tasmanian and NSW Government and Hobart and Newcastle airports for their support of the new route.
“Jetstar’s new route will provide a major tourism boost across Hobart and the Hunter,” she said.
“The Qantas Group already carries more tourists into Hobart and Newcastle than any other airline – and arrivals are set to soar yet again.
“Starting in December, Jetstar’s new direct seasonal service between these two cities will create another 22,000 low-cost seats a year, further strengthening inbound tourism.
