Jetstar, a low-cost carrier under the Qantas Group, has announced a significant expansion of its operations in Western Australia, marking a major milestone for the airline in the region. This expansion includes the establishment of a new aircraft and pilot base at Perth Airport and the introduction of a third new service connecting Perth with Asia.
The airline’s largest single expansion in Perth is marked by the launch of its new route to Bangkok, its third Asian destination from the city. This follows the successful launches of nonstop flights to Singapore and Phuket in August. The new Bangkok route, commencing on September 6, 2024, will operate up to four times weekly between Perth Airport (PER) and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) using an Airbus A321LR.
Jetstar’s expansion will add over 300,000 new low-fare seats each year between Perth and Asia, offering enhanced travel options for Western Australians and attracting thousands of tourists to the state. The airline’s service to Singapore also provides seamless connections to Jetstar Asia’s network, which includes 17 destinations such as Colombo (Sri Lanka) and Okinawa (Japan).
The new Bangkok route is expected to significantly enhance travel options for Western Australians and attract thousands of tourists to the state. The flights are scheduled to depart Perth on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 14:55, arriving in Bangkok at 20:30. The return flights will operate on the same days, departing BKK at 21:40 and arriving back in Perth the following day at 05:20.
To support its expanding operations, Jetstar has opened a new base in Perth, which will house up to 60 pilots and four of its newest Airbus A321LR narrowbody jets. This strategic move is aimed at supporting current and future growth in Western Australia. Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully emphasized that after 20 years of flying in Australia, the airline is looking to Western Australia as a key area for future expansion and development.
The establishment of the new base in Perth aligns with Jetstar’s plans to add more aircraft to its fleet. The Perth-based aircraft are part of a broader pipeline of 38 new A321LRs and A321XLRs that will join Jetstar’s fleet by 2029. The airline has already added 15 A321LRs to its fleet, which are currently operating a mix of domestic and short-haul international flights to destinations such as Bali, Singapore, Fiji, and the Cook Islands.
Jetstar’s expansion in Perth is part of a larger trend of international airlines recognizing the potential of Western Australia as a key aviation hub. The region’s strategic location offers a gateway to Asia, providing airlines with the opportunity to tap into both outbound and inbound travel markets. For Western Australians, this expansion means more travel options, competitive pricing, and increased connectivity to major destinations across Asia and beyond.
The expansion also reflects the growing importance of Western Australia as a hub for international travel. With new routes to Asia, a new pilot base, and enhanced connectivity options, Jetstar is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities presented by this dynamic market. As the airline continues to grow, it will play a vital role in shaping the future of aviation in Western Australia, offering travelers more choices and contributing to the region’s economic development.
