1 December 2022: Jetstar will launch new flights between Sydney and Rarotonga, marking the first time the low-cost carrier has operated direct flights between Australia and the largest of the Cook Islands.
Taking off from 29 June 2023*, the new service will offer two weekly return flights operated by Jetstar's newest, and most fuel-efficient aircraft, the Airbus A321neo LR, which will carry up to 50,000 customers between the two destinations each year.
Jetstar Group CEO, Stephanie Tully said the launch of the new service was timed to coincide with the start of Australia's winter school holidays.
"Rarotonga is a stunning tropical island and we're excited to introduce our great low fares on this new route ahead of next year's winter school holidays, offering Australians an opportunity to escape the cold and explore one of the most beautiful destinations in the South Pacific," said Ms. Tully.
"We are thrilled to be operating our new Airbus A321neo LR on the route. The aircraft burns up to 20 per cent less fuel and flies longer distances, meaning we can offer more low fares to more destinations, helping people travel for less.
"The direct Sydney to Rarotonga will be our second route to the popular island and we thank the Cook Islands Government for their ongoing support."
The Honourable Mark Brown, Cook Islands Prime Minister, said this marks the continuation of a mutually successful relationship with Jetstar. "Our country, like many others, has had to survive a long period of time with no visitors, and the announcement of these non-stop flights from Australia is another major step in our recovery. We are ready to welcome our Australian visitors with open arms and embrace the fact that our family based in Australia can return to their home more easily."
To celebrate the new route, Jetstar will launch a 48-hour sale at midday today including thousands of cheap fares between Sydney and Rarotonga with fares from just $229^ one way.
Jetstar's new generation A321neo LR
The new route will be operated by the latest addition to the Jetstar fleet, the new generation, longer range Airbus A321neo LR.
The NEO is 50 per cent quieter and up to 20 per cent more fuel efficient than the current fleet of A320 aircraft, making it the lowest emissions aircraft in the Jetstar fleet.
The aircraft also has a range of customer benefits including wider seats, larger overhead storage lockers and in-seat USB power to keep devices charged.
*Flights subject to government and regulatory approval
Schedule
Flight number |
Departs |
Arrives |
Frequency |
JQ141 Sydney Rarotonga (Cook Islands) |
21:30 |
07:00 |
Thursday and Sunday |
JQ142 Rarotonga (Cook Islands) to Sydney |
09:00 |
12:30+1 |
Sale details
^Sale starts 12:00pm AEDT Thursday 1 December 2022 until 11:59am AEDT Saturday 3 December 2022, unless sold out prior. Fares are one-way and exclude checked baggage. Selected travel dates and conditions apply.
