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Jetstar has commenced its new route from Melbourne to Hervey Bay on Queensland’s Fraser Coast.
The service, announced in November, is the first to connect the two destinations and took off for its maiden flight on 20 June. It will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays using A320-200s, adding more than 1,100 seats per week between Melbourne (Tullamarine) and Hervey Bay.
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When combined with Jetstar’s existing Sydney service, the new route is tipped to boost the airline’s Hervey Bay capacity to around 3,800 passengers per week.
“We know how much Melbournians love to head North, especially during winter, and we’re looking forward to giving them direct access to a new Queensland destination on our low fares network,” said Jetstar’s executive manager, customer, Jenn Armor.
“Hervey Bay is a bit of a hidden gem for Victorians as there’s never been a direct flight from Melbourne to this part of Queensland.
“Aside from being the gateway to K’gari, Hervey Bay offers pristine, calm beaches that are perfect for young families, access to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, and it’s one of the best places in the world for whale encounters.”
The route has been launched in partnership with Fraser Coast Council, which operates the airport, and deputy mayor Paul Truscott said the council is excited about the new opportunities it is expected to bring.
“It’s more than just flights; it’s about forging new connections, exploring new destinations, and inviting southerners to experience the Fraser Coast while giving us the chance to enjoy everything Melbourne has to offer,” he said.
“The introduction of direct flights from Melbourne to Hervey Bay by Jetstar will significantly boost tourism, providing easier access for visitors and fostering economic growth in the Fraser Coast region.”
This is the first time an airline has flown directly between Melbourne and Hervey Bay. Now-defunct regional airline JETGO had planned a service in 2017 between Hervey Bay and Essendon Airport, which was cancelled due to low demand.
The launch of Melbourne–Hervey Bay comes as Jetstar is set to launch another new Victoria–Queensland route this week. Commencing on 28 June, the daily service will connect Brisbane with Jetstar’s original home base of Avalon Airport.
It will bring the number of destinations served by Jetstar from Avalon to three, alongside Sydney and the Gold Coast, with the low-cost carrier looking to expand its Avalon services.
