Jetstar has announced it will commence direct flights between Brisbane and Honolulu from December 15.
The Qantas subsidiary says the flights, which are still subject to regulatory approval, will initially be operated by Airbus A330 equipment, but will switch to 787s as that fleet grows. Two flights per week will operate in the regular season with a third to be added during peak periods.
“With the addition of this new connection from Brisbane, Jetstar offers more seats from Brisbane and Queensland than any other low fares carrier,” Jetstar Australia and New Zealand CEO David Hall said in a statement. “Jetstar has been offering long haul low fares between Sydney and Hawai’i since 2006, and last year we introduced nonstop services to Honolulu from Melbourne. “Hawai’i is one of the most popular destinations on our network and we’re delighted to be giving more Aussies the chance to experience this part of the world.”
Brisbane Airport Corporation welcomed the move, saying the service will add 1,212 extra return seats on the sector per week. “Today’s announcement is more good news for Queensland and Brisbane with travellers given more options than ever before to take off and enjoy one of the world’s most iconic island nations,” BAC CEO and Managing Director Julieanne Alroe said. “Pledging valuable aircraft and staff resources to a new destination or route is a huge commitment and I am confident these new services will be warmly embraced by locals and tourists alike.”
The move comes just two days after Hawaiian Airlines added a fourth weekly return service between Brisbane and Honolulu.