The Hunter has officially entered a new era of international travel, with the first Jetstar flight from Newcastle to Singapore departing this week.
The route allows travellers to reach one of Asia’s largest hot spot destinations without venturing to Sydney.
On Tuesday 24 March, Flight JQ88 marked the launch of a one-stop, same-plane connection from Newcastle Airport to Singapore via Bali.
Operating four times a week, the service departs the former steel city at 10am, stops in Bali for 90 minutes, and arrives in Singapore at 6pm local time.
Passengers remain on the same aircraft for the entire journey.
Travelers were able to enjoy the occasion with Singapore-inspired celebrations at the terminal, including themed food and refreshments before boarding.
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the launch reflected the strong demand for international travel from the region.
“[Today] is a great day,” he stated.
“We have built the infrastructure and, now, we are seeing people embrace it.
“This route provides faster access that local travellers need.”
The service builds on the success of Newcastle’s Bali flights, which have increased from three to four flights per week due to demand.
Passenger Ivy Carruth, who was on board the first flight, said the route removed the need for early morning drives to Sydney and offered a more convenient and accessible option for her travel.
“It is so much easier to travel from Newcastle,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“It cuts out all that traffic and it is much more affordable.
“I am looking forward to sitting by the pool and doing some work, treating it as an office away from the office.”
Port Stephens mayor Leah Anderson, who will be travelling among passengers, added the new connection was a major win for the region.
“The launch of this Singapore service is a fantastic outcome for Newcastle Airport and the community it serves,” she said.
“Having an international connection to Singapore strengthens our ability to attract visitors from across Southeast Asia and beyond.”
Singapore’s Changi Airport provides access to more than 170 destinations, making it a key location for travellers from the Hunter, Central Coast and Mid-North Coast.
The first flight signals a significant step forward for Newcastle Airport and positions the Hunter as an emerging international gateway.
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