Jetstar has officially launched its Brisbane to Tokyo (Narita) flights, marking a strategic shift from its Gold Coast service. The inaugural flight, JQ9, took off from Brisbane on Tuesday, operated by a 787-8 Dreamliner and returned as JQ10.
Initially, Jetstar will operate five return services per week from Brisbane to Tokyo, with plans to increase to a daily service by December. This move is just the first of three new Asian routes from Brisbane, set to be announced in the coming months.
Jetstar is now the first low-cost carrier to offer non-stop flights from Brisbane to Tokyo, bringing an impressive 250,000 additional annual seats to the route.
In addition, Jetstar plans to introduce four weekly flights to Osaka (Kansai) and three to Seoul (Incheon) in February.
Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully expressed confidence in the new routes, stating, “Our competitive fares are expected to stimulate travel demand into Southeast Queensland from Tokyo, Osaka, and Seoul. This surge in tourist arrivals will boost the state’s economy and provide Queenslanders with the opportunity to explore these vibrant cities.”
The launch of these routes is supported by Brisbane Airport and Queensland’s Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF). Gert-Jan de Graaff, CEO of Brisbane Airport, emphasised the economic impact these routes will have on the tourism industry in south-east Queensland, saying, “The introduction of thousands of low-cost seats into the market comes at a time when cost of living is a significant concern. The new flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and Seoul are part of a substantial partnership between Jetstar and Brisbane Airport.”
The airline is increasing its Brisbane-Auckland services daily, ensuring more convenience for passengers.
Additionally, starting in February, Jetstar will boost its Brisbane-Denpasar flights to 10 return services per week. Introducing the Airbus A321neo LR (NEO) on its Brisbane to Bali and Auckland routes promises a more comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Jetstar’s strategic moves are set to benefit travellers and the tourism industry in Queensland by providing more affordable travel options and driving economic growth.
Brisbane Airport will provide pax with an extra 1.3 million international seats over the next 12 months, welcoming new routes, additional flights to existing services and aircraft upgrades for more capacity to boost travel options for Queenslanders.
Indeed, this week, the Airport saw the return of China Eastern, who touched down again after three years, eight months and 21 days since their last flight landed in Queensland from China. Non-stop services will start three days per week, then daily from 8 December.
“This is a landmark day for Queensland’s tourism industry,” said Gert-Jan de Graaff, Chief Executive Officer of Brisbane Airport Corporation.
“We are delighted to welcome China Eastern Airlines back to Brisbane and see Shanghai return to BNE’s destination map. Shanghai is China’s largest city and a commercial hub, making it a key city for business and leisure travel,” he said.
With a Future BNE initiative for its Domestic and International Terminals and a vision for Terminal 3 beginning this week, Queensland’s hub is on the rise significantly with the goal for BNE to be fully prepared for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The following ten years will see the continued transformation of Brisbane Airport. It is currently investing more than $5 billion in sustainable, transformational infrastructure that will deliver improved services and new facilities.
For more, head to www.bne.com.au
