What's Happening?
Jetstar has announced the introduction of its first-ever direct flights from Brisbane to Rarotonga, the capital of the Cook Islands. This new service will operate three times a week, providing over 50,000 seats annually. The flights will be conducted using Jetstar's modern A321neo LR aircraft, known for their fuel efficiency. This route marks Jetstar's second direct connection from Australia to the Cook Islands, following the successful launch of Sydney to Rarotonga flights in June 2023. The airline is offering launch sale fares starting at $249 one-way, available for a limited time. Jetstar's expansion in Queensland is significant, with the airline having announced six new international routes from the state in the past six months.
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Why It's Important?
The introduction of direct flights from Brisbane to Rarotonga is expected to significantly boost tourism in the Cook Islands, a sector that contributes approximately 75% of the nation's GDP. The new route not only enhances travel options for Australians seeking tropical destinations but also strengthens Brisbane's position as a key gateway for international travel. For the Cook Islands, increased accessibility is likely to bring economic benefits to local tourism operators and the broader economy. Jetstar's expansion reflects growing demand for international travel from Queensland, highlighting the state's importance in the airline's network.
What's Next?
The new Brisbane to Rarotonga flights are scheduled to commence in May 2026. As the launch date approaches, Jetstar and the Cook Islands Government are expected to collaborate on promotional activities to maximize the route's potential. The tourism sector in the Cook Islands will likely prepare for an influx of Australian visitors, potentially leading to increased investment in local infrastructure and services. The success of this route could encourage further expansion of direct flights to other Pacific destinations.
