Jetstar Launches New Direct Flights from Brisbane to Seoul and Osaka

Jetstar has embarked on a significant expansion of its international flight offerings from southeast Queensland, marking a milestone with the inauguration of new direct flights from Brisbane to Seoul, South Korea, followed by the launch of a direct service to Osaka, Japan. These developments promise to enhance connectivity and offer affordable travel options, underpinning the airline's commitment to fostering global travel links.

Utilizing its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, Jetstar will operate three weekly return flights between Brisbane and Seoul's Incheon airport, alongside four return flights per week from Brisbane to Osaka's Kansai airport. Notably, the Brisbane-Osaka route introduces the only direct flight service between the two cities, highlighting Jetstar's role in connecting Queensland with key international markets.

The introduction of these routes is a boon for tourism in southeast Queensland, with an estimated capacity to transport up to 240,000 passengers annually between the destinations. This influx is anticipated to inject millions of dollars into the local economy, showcasing the significant economic benefits of expanded air services. The flights have garnered support from the Queensland government through the Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF), a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering the state's tourism sector.

These routes are part of a broader collaboration between Jetstar and Brisbane Airport, which has previously facilitated new services to Tokyo (Narita) and increased low-cost seat availability to Bali and Auckland. This partnership underscores a shared vision to enhance Queensland's accessibility and attractiveness as a travel destination.

Jetstar Group CEO, Stephanie Tully, expressed optimism about the demand for international travel from southeast Queensland, emphasizing the mutual benefits of the new routes for travelers and the local economy. "We anticipate these two exciting new routes will be popular in both directions, with inbound visitation from South Korea and Japan expected to inject millions of dollars into the sunshine state’s economy," Tully remarked, highlighting the opportunity for Queensland residents to explore Seoul and Osaka through more accessible fare options.

Echoing this sentiment, Brisbane Airport CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff, lauded the launch as a significant milestone for Queensland tourism and employment, contributing to Brisbane's growing international connectivity. With direct links now established to 29 international and 61 domestic airports, Brisbane Airport strengthens its position as a pivotal hub in Australia's aviation network.

The Queensland Tourism Minister, Michael Healy, also highlighted the strategic importance of these new services, pointing out the growth in visitors from South Korea and the substantial economic contribution of Japanese tourists. Supported by the AAIF, these routes are poised to significantly enhance the visitor economy and underscore Queensland's appeal as a premier tourism destination.

The flight schedules for the new routes are designed to optimize convenience and accessibility for travelers, ensuring a seamless travel experience to and from Brisbane. With these additions, Jetstar reaffirms its commitment to expanding its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region, offering more opportunities for affordable international travel and strengthening cultural and economic ties between Queensland and key Asian markets.