Tasmania is set to become easier to reach from Newcastle, with Jetstar adding 6000 seats to its direct Hobart service for the upcoming summer season.
The route will also return earlier, with flights taking off from Newcastle from 27 October and continuing through to24 April, 2027.
More than 28,000 seats will be available between the two cities during the season, representing a 27 per cent increase on the route’s first season.
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the expansion was a strong indication of demand for the direct connection between the Hunter and Tasmania.
“This route made history when it launched in December 2025 as the only direct air-flight service between Hobart and Newcastle,” Mr Horton said.
“It generated new inbound travel into the Hunter while giving locals direct access to another much-loved destination in Australia.”
The earlier start will give travellers access to the route across more of the popular spring and summer travel period, including the lead-up to Christmas, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race and the Easter holidays.
Flights will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, using Jetstar Airbus A320 aircraft.
Mr Horton said the service was helping strengthen connections between the Hunter and other parts of Australia, while also bringing more visitors into the region.
“We are a gateway in both directions, meaning it is easier for locals to explore further afield, whilst we attract visitors to our fantastic region,” he said.
Mr Horton said the growth of the Hobart service was part of Newcastle Airport’s broader goal of improving connectivity across the region.
“Expanding a service such as our direct to Hobart flight is another cog in our bigger goal of building a more connected Hunter, so that travel, tourism and jobs are flourishing for our entire region,” he said.
The NSW Government has also welcomed the additional capacity, with Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper saying stronger air connections would benefit the local tourism industry.
“The Hunter is one of NSW’s great tourism destinations, and better air connectivity will help bring more visitors that support local businesses and jobs,” Mr Kamper said.
The direct service will depart Newcastle at 3.40pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, arriving in Hobart at 5.40pm.
Return flights will leave Hobart at 6.20pm and arrive in Newcastle at 8.15pm.
Fares start from $199 one-way, subject to availability and conditions.
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