Port Stephens residents will soon be able to fly direct from Newcastle to Hobart, with Jetstar announcing a new seasonal service connecting the two cities for the first time.
Starting 2 December 2025, the new flights will operate three times a week, every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, until 21 April 2026, with the service set to return each summer through to 2028.
The new route marks another major milestone for Newcastle Airport, following the opening of its expanded terminal and the recent launch of new direct services to Perth and Bali.
Mayor of Port Stephens and Newcastle Airport Director, Leah Anderson, said the new connection is a fantastic win for the Hunter and for Port Stephens.
"Our residents now have easier access to Tasmania and the door is open for more visitors to fly into our region, explore our coastline and support our tourism businesses," Mayor Anderson said.
"Newcastle Airport is right on our doorstep and this new connection makes getting here, or getting away, even easier. We want Newcastle Airport to be the first choice for every traveller from Port Stephens, the Hunter, Central Coast, Northern NSW and even Northern Sydney."
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the new Hobart route is another example of the airport enabling more travel choice, supporting the local economy and opening up new opportunities for the region.
"Being directly connected to Tasmania's capital is a big deal for both communities," Mr Horton said. "Our region wants to travel and deserves to have these important connections available to them."
With direct flights now to 12 destinations and more than 250 weekly flights, Newcastle Airport continues to strengthen its role as the region's gateway to the Hunter and New South Wales.