Brisbane Airport is extending its ties to Rarotonga after confirmation from Jetstar that it will fly to the Cook Islands next May.
The new service will operate three times a week and will be served by an Airbus A321neo LR aircraft.
It will be the airport’s 35th international destination, says CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff.
“Brisbane offers Australia’s largest network of direct flights to South Pacific destinations,” he claims.
Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown says the news is significant for the nation.
“The new service from Jetstar will provide a major boost to our tourism sector and the financial impact for local tourism operators and the nation will be positive,” he says.
For the airport’s airside safety officer and Cook Islander Tavake Mackenzie, the news is a “goosebump moment”; he is due to work beside the runway when the flight lands in May.
“It’s been a long time coming for everyone, especially Cook Islanders like myself living in Queensland,” he says.
“One piece of free advice from me; make sure you fly over to the island of Aitutaki. You won’t regret it.”
JETSTAR OPERATIONS GROWING
Jetstar is now the airport’s second biggest international carrier, the airport says.
“Queensland is at the heart of Jetstar’s international growth. We’re thrilled to be launching direct flights from Brisbane to Rarotonga,” says Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully.
“This new route builds on the incredible demand we’re seeing out of Queensland with six international services launched or announced in just six months.
“When these flights start in May 2026, Jetstar will provide more than 110,000 seats each year to and from the Cook Islands.”
Nikau Tangaroa, CEO of the Cook Islands Airport Authority, was heartened by the news as well.
“This increased convenience is expected to influence traveller’s decisions and position the Cook Islands as a more attractive destination,” he says.
“Beyond improved access, the new route is set to generate economic benefits through increased activity at the airport and surrounding areas, job creation across sectors and a substantial boost to tourism.”
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