Jetstar will launch seasonal direct flights between Perth and Christchurch from October with thrice-weekly services and upwards of 30,000 seats between the two cities.

The new trans-Tasman route is part of the airline’s Perth expansion plans, with a new cabin crew base at Perth Airport set to open in the coming months.

“It’s fantastic to have seat capacity into New Zealand continuing to rebuild, and new routes are always welcome news for hoteliers,” Hotel Council Aotearoa, Strategic Director, James Doolan told Wayfarer exclusively.

“Kiwis look forward to hosting even more Western Australians in Christchurch and throughout the country!”

The new services, subject to Government and Regulatory approval, will provide more than 30,000 low-fares seats between the two cities, supporting West Australian’s strong demand for low fares international leisure travel, with more than 700,000 customers flying on Jetstar flights internationally last year.

The new international route begins from 27 October 2026 to 27 March 2027, and will be operated by its fleet of Perth based Airbus A321LRs.

“We’re thrilled to be launching our new nonstop service between Perth and Christchurch, giving West Australians an affordable and convenient way to connect with New Zealand’s South Island with its alpine adventures, coastal escapes and world-class wineries,” Jetstar CEO, Stephanie Tully said.

“Basing up to 90 cabin crew in Perth will allow us to continue to expand our network out of the West in coming years, providing more choice for West Australians and boosting the state’s tourism economy.”

The Hon. Reece Whitby MLA, Western Australia Minister for Tourism, said re-establishing a direct air link between Perth and Christchurch is an important milestone for Western Australia and strengthens its connection to New Zealand, which is one of its most valuable international visitor markets.

“This service not only boosts flight capacity into Western Australia but also contributes to our broader economic diversification strategy by attracting visitors, supporting local jobs, and reinforcing Perth’s position as Australia’s Western Gateway,” Whitby said.

Jetstar’s WA launch comes less than 18 months since the carrier opened an aircraft and pilot base in the west, with investment in Perth facilitated by a pipeline of new Neo aircraft joining the its fleet, freeing up existing aircraft and creating new destination opportunities, the airline stated.