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In a potential boost to tourism between Australia and South Korea, Jetstar is preparing to launch the first and only low-fare direct service linking the two countries.

Out of interest, Qantas has requested the allocation of seats for the new Korea service “for a period of 99 years from the date of the determination”, addking that the capacity will be fully utilised by 31 March 2020.

Taking off in December 2019, Jetstar, in codeshare partnership with Korean low-cost carrier Jeju Air, will become the only low-cost carrier to fly direct to Seoul from Australia. Flights on a Jetstar Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner will operate from the Gold Coast three times per week from 8 December 2019 – subject to the usual governmental and regulatory approvals.

Jeju Air is the largest Korean low-cost carrier in terms of passenger numbers, fleet, revenue and net profits, carrying over 10 million passengers a year to over 70 routes throughout Asia-Pacific region.

South Korea is considered an under-served market from Australia with strong inbound and outbound demand. Jetstar estimates the service will bring in 50,000 visitors annually and inject more than AUD 170 million to the Gold Coast economy.

Jetstar group chief executive Gareth Evans said South Korea had the potential to quickly become one of the most popular Asian destinations for Australian travellers.

“By introducing low fares to Seoul, we expect that South Korea will be a country that jumps to the top of many Australian traveller’s bucket lists,” Evans said.

Jetstar B787 Dreamliner

“Seoul and its surrounding regions offer visitors the opportunity to explore South Korea’s rich cultural history, vibrant nightlife and food scene.

“We know from experience that low-cost flights have a strong influence on setting tourism trends, which we’ve seen in markets like Japan where the number of Australian visitors has doubled since we first launched flights in 2007.”

Evans said it’s expected that demand for inbound flights to Australia from South Korea will also be strong.

“Research shows that South Korean travellers consistently rank Australia as the top destination they want to visit, but they were unlikely to travel without low-cost direct flights.

“South Koreans already travel more frequently than any other nationality in the Asia Pacific, so there’s no doubt they will take advantage of these new direct flights to Australia.

Jetstar celebrates its Korean connection

“The Gold Coast offers the perfect gateway for tourists visiting Australia with its famous beaches and attractions, and direct Jetstar flights connecting to seven other destinations across the country.”

Flights from the Gold Coast to Seoul will commence on 8 December 2019 subject to regulatory approval.

Flight # Frequency From To Depart Arrive
JQ49 Wednesday, Friday, Sunday Gold Coast Seoul 1320 2200
JQ50 Wednesday, Friday, Sunday Seoul Gold Coast 2330 0945+1

Edited by Peter Needham