First-ever direct flights to Newcastle set to take off

The Tasmanian Government, in partnership with Jetstar and Hobart Airport, is pleased to announce the first ever direct route between Hobart and Newcastle, beginning 2 December 2025. 

This new service strengthens Tasmania’s air connectivity with an added 26,656 seats during the season, representing a major opportunity to capitalise on steady visitor growth from New South Wales.

Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Jane Howlett, said the new seasonal service will deliver significant economic benefits for Tasmania and drive new visitation.

"Aviation access is vital to Tasmania, with strong capacity and frequent services ensuring travel remains affordable and convenient," Minister Howlett said.  

“Direct routes provide benefits for travellers and growth opportunities for destinations.

“We are proud to work with Jetstar and Hobart Airport to support this new route and unlock opportunities for Tasmanians and visitors alike.”

The new Hobart–Newcastle route has been secured with support from the Tasmanian Government's Aviation Attraction Fund.

“The Tasmanian Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund is leveraging opportunities like this new direct air service to support our tourism industry, increase trade opportunities and grow our economy,” Minister Howlett said.

The new service from Jetstar will fly three times a week to and from Hobart Airport, where passengers will also benefit from the latest developments in terminal upgrades.

Hobart Airport COO, Matt Cocker, said the Airport’s team was proud to have worked hard to help secure the additional flights for Tasmania.

“The new direct flights to Newcastle will unlock the largest population area in Australia that we’re not yet flying to directly, from Hobart Airport,” Mr Cocker said.

“This is great news for Tasmania’s tourism and hospitality businesses, with well over one million new potential travellers across the greater Newcastle Hunter region.

“Having the chance to travel direct between Hobart and Newcastle, rather than via Sydney, will save travellers time and money.

“The additional 20,000-plus passengers on these flights this season adds to a hot-summer at Hobart Airport, with nearly 150,000 more seats (+seven per cent) compared to last summer.”

Sarah Kingston Clark, CEO Tourism Tasmania said: "This direct service opens the door to a significant catchment of 1.4 million people across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter Valley.

"This is a regional market that has already shown strong appetite for what Tasmania has to offer, with further strong potential for growth.

“The additional visitors travelling via this route will contribute an estimated $41.5 million in visitor spend into Tasmania’s economy over this summer season.”

The new service from Jetstar will fly three times a week, Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturdays, with the season concluding after Easter on 21 April 2026.

Flights are on sale on now and can be booked directly on Jetstar’s website or via travel agents.