Newcastle locals shivering in scarves and puffer jackets now have an express lane to sunshine, with Jetstar’s seasonal direct flights to Cairns roaring back into action today. The budget airline’s popular winter service between Newcastle and the tropical north is once again inviting holidaymakers to ditch the doona and embrace the reef.
It’s a flight path rapidly becoming a ritual for sun-starved Sydneysiders and Hunter Valley dwellers. Three hours is all it takes to swap a chilly morning fog for a steamy rainforest walk or a poolside piña colada under the Far North Queensland sun. And all without bothering about a transfer through Brisbane or Sydney.
From vineyards to vibrant reefs
But it’s not just southerners chasing sunshine. The route is proving a two-way ticket to regional tourism revival, with Cairns locals increasingly keen to sample Newcastle’s beaches, cellar doors and classic coastal charm.
Linc Horton, CEO of Newcastle Airport, says the Cairns route is no longer just a seasonal fling—it’s becoming a staple of the airport’s expanding domestic network.
“Jetstar’s seasonal service to Cairns is a valuable connection for our region,” Mr Horton said. “It offers a direct link between the Hunter and one of Australia’s most sought-after holiday destinations.”
“These flights make it easier for locals to enjoy a tropical getaway while also inviting visitors from Far North Queensland to experience all that the greater Hunter Region has to offer.”
And it’s not hard to see why the route continues to gain altitude. Following what Horton called a “standout 2024 season,” the service’s 2025 return is already causing a flurry of booking activity.
“As we prepare to open our new terminal,” Horton added, “the continued growth in services like this highlights the increasing demand for convenient, direct air travel and reinforces Newcastle Airport’s role as a critical enabler of regional tourism and economic activity.”
Timetable: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays — no excuses
The Cairns–Newcastle service will operate three times a week—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—from 2 July to 24 October 2025, with a midday departure from Cairns and an afternoon return from Newcastle.
Flight Schedule (2 July–24 October 2025):
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Cairns to Newcastle: Departs noon, Arrives 14:45 (or 15:45 from 6 October)
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Newcastle to Cairns: Departs 15:20 (or 16:20 from 6 October), Arrives 18:15
This frequency gives travellers ample flexibility, whether planning a midweek tropical breather or a long weekend with toes in the sand.
Sunshine from $112 one way
Jetstar is advertising fares from a wallet-friendly $112 one-way, though savvy travellers would be wise to book early. Seats are limited, and let’s be honest, no one wants to be left scrolling beach pics from the couch with a heater at their feet.
Bookings can be made via jetstar.com or by visiting the Cairns Destination page on the Newcastle Airport website.
Park, fly, and unwind.
Travellers heading north are also reminded that Newcastle Airport offers competitive parking options, including long-stay rates and premium spots a short stroll from the terminal. Early bookings via parking.newcastleairport.com.au will secure the best value—an important note for families or holidaymakers toting boards, golf clubs or eskies.
From puffer to paddleboard
Let’s face it—nothing says Aussie winter quite like escaping it. And now, thanks to Jetstar’s direct connection, it’s easier than ever to go from fireplace to frangipani without switching airports or playing suitcase Tetris in Sydney.
So whether you’re craving rainforest retreats, reef snorkelling, or a classic summer-in-winter escape, Cairns is calling—and Jetstar’s ready with the boarding pass.
