Trans-Tasman flights from Hamilton are set to resume after 13 years with Jetstar’s first flight to take off from the city in June 2025.
Jetstar, a subsidiary of Qantas, has announced it will offer three return flights per week between Hamilton and the Gold Coast and four return flights per week between Hamilton and Sydney. The first flights will take off in June 2025, in time for the New Zealand school holidays.
These trans-Tasman commercial flights will be the first out of Hamilton in 13 years. The final Virgin Australia flight flew from Hamilton to Brisbane on October 27, 2012, ending 18 years of trans-Tasman flights.
The Jetstar flights will see over 100,000 more passengers per year using Hamilton Airport,some for business and some on holiday, leading to the creation of around 60 new airport-based jobs.
Hamilton Airport will refit its northern terminal in preparation for customs, border control, aviation security and other services needed for international flights.
The aircraft used on the trans-Tasman routes will be a 188-seater A320 Neo, and there was no requirement to change the runway to accommodate the services.
Waikato Regional Airport Ltd (WRAL) chief executive Mark Morgan said today’s decision comes after more than a year of “solid grind” by his team negotiating with the airline and border agencies.
“It’s been hard, complex work, in a very sensitive commercial environment and we are thrilled to have pulled this off. The benefits for the entire region – not just passengers – are huge. Analysis indicates the flights will boost the regional economy by about $45 million per year. That’s fantastic for everyone; this is not just about the airport, it’s a great day for the region.”
Jetstar Group chief executive Stephanie Tully said the airline was excited to be further expanding its network in Aotearoa.
“We thank Hamilton and Dunedin Airports for their ongoing support of low fares travel for Kiwis. It’s through strong partnerships like these that we’re able to grow our network in New Zealand.”
Meanwhile, Mayor Paula Southgate has welcomed news that Jetstar will start flying between Australia and Hamilton.
“This is a huge win for our city and region. Air travel plays a major role in economic and social connectivity, and this will open up Hamilton to Australia and the world,” said Mayor Southgate in a statement released this morning.
“I’m sure Hamiltonians will be excited to have direct access across the ditch. But this will also give our local economy a tremendous boost, by creating jobs, opening up business opportunities, and bringing tourists here to eat, play and stay in our city and region.”
Anticipated 65,000 travellers inbound to Hamilton Airport are expected to generate 360 new jobs and an additional $45m to our regional economy.
Hamilton City Council has a 50 percent ownership stake in Hamilton Airport, which operates as an independently governed CCO.
