Newcastle Airport and Jetstar are opening up the Apple Isle even further for Hunter travellers with the immensely popular Newcastle – Hobart direct service returning for an extended second season with a significant 27% capacity increase on offer.
Following the route’s inaugural season, the seasonal service is returning from 27 October 2026 to 24 April 2027, starting more than a month earlier than its debut year and offering over 28,000 seats between the two cities.
The boost of 6,000 more seats is 27% more than its first season which shows just how great the demand is for the direct link between the Hunter and Tasmania.
The route will fly with Jetstar’s Airbus A320 and flights will continue to run three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, providing convenient direct access in both directions throughout the busy summer travel period.
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said this expanded season is a large vote of confidence for the route and the Hunter market.
“This route made history was when it launched in December 2025 as the only direct air-flight service between Hobart and Newcastle, generating new inbound travel into the Hunter while giving locals direct access to another much-loved destination in Australia,” Mr Horton said.
The extended second season will now include more of the popular spring and summer travel period which falls through the buildup to Christmas, through to the Sydney to Hobart yacht race and Easter holidays.
Mr Horton said the growth of the Hobart service and other key domestic and international routes, show the strong role Newcastle Airport can play in supporting the NSW visitor economy.
“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.
“Expanding a service such as our direct to Hobart flight is another cog in our bigger goal of building a more connected Hunter, so that travel, tourism and jobs are flourishing for our entire region.”
Newcastle – Hobart 2026 – 2027 Season (27 October 2026 – 24 April 2027)
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You can check current flight information at www.newcastleairport.com.au. Fares from Newcastle to Hobart are available from $199^ (one-way).
^Available until sold out. One-way, excludes checked bags. For travel before 2 February 2027, fares include 7kg carry-on bags. For travel on or after 2 February 2027, fares include one Underseat carry-on bag and Priority Carry-on can be purchased (subject to availability). Prices based on payment by PayID, Jetstar voucher, Jetstar Gift Card, or bookings redeemed only in Qantas Points through jetstar.com. For other options, a Payment Fee applies. See jetstar.com/fees. Travel dates and other conditions apply.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:
“The increased capacity is another boost for the Hunter region. The Hunter is one of NSW’s great tourism destinations, and better air connectivity will help bring more visitors that support local businesses and jobs.
“Direct air links also make it easier for people to explore more of NSW and experience the many great destinations our regions have to offer.”
Jetstar Executive Manager Commercial Planning, Scott Zeglin said:
“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.
“These flights give Hunter residents direct access to Tasmania’s incredible landscapes and experiences and Tasmanians an affordable connection to the beautiful coastline around Newcastle and the Hunter Valley.
“We thank the Newcastle Airport for their continued support in delivering more low fares and greater travel choice.”
Hobart Airport CEO Norris Carter said:
“The extension of the service provides more opportunities for Hunter travellers to experience Hobart and Tasmania during some of the most popular months of the year.
“From October through to April, visitors can enjoy our world-class food and wine scene, major summer events and unforgettable natural landscapes.
“The additional capacity reflects the strong appeal of Tasmania and the growing demand for direct travel between our two regions.”
