Jetstar adds 6000 seats to extended Newcastle-Hobart season

newy.com.au – Jetstar will add 6000 seats to its seasonal Newcastle-Hobart service, with direct flights returning more than a month earlier for the route’s second year.

The expanded season will run from October 27, 2026, to April 24, 2027, covering the lead-up to Christmas, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race and the Easter holidays.

More than 28,000 seats will be available between Newcastle and Hobart, a 27 per cent increase on the first season. Flights will continue to operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays using Airbus A320 aircraft.

Jetstar executive manager of commercial planning Scott Zeglin said demand during the route’s inaugural season had prompted the expansion.

“Due to the popularity of our flights between Hobart and Newcastle last year, we’ve added more than 6,000 new low fares seats between the two cities,” Mr Zeglin said.

The service began in December 2025 as the only direct air connection between Newcastle and Hobart, removing the need for Hunter travellers to change planes when flying to Tasmania.

One-way fares from Newcastle start at $199 and are available until sold out. The advertised price excludes checked baggage and may attract a payment fee, depending on the payment method. Jetstar will also change its standard carry-on baggage allowance for travel from February 2, 2027.

Newcastle Airport chief executive Linc Horton said extending the season would support travel in both directions and give Tasmanian visitors easier access to Newcastle, the Hunter coast and Hunter Valley.

“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,” Mr Horton said.

Hobart Airport chief executive Norris Carter said the extended schedule would give Hunter residents more opportunities to visit Tasmania during its peak spring and summer travel period.