3 Jun 2025

First Time in History – Newcastle Airport Announces Year-Round International Flights 

Jetstar is coming full circle — the airline that launched its very first commercial service from Newcastle Airport in 2004 will now operate Newcastle Airport’s first year-round international route, with direct flights to Bali commencing from 21 October 2025. 

Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said launching an ongoing international service with Jetstar was a historic moment for the region and marked the next chapter in a partnership that began more than two decades ago. 

“Jetstar has been part of Newcastle Airport’s story from their very beginning and it’s only fitting that they’re the airline to take us into our international future,” Mr Horton said. “Announcing the availability of direct flights to Denpasar International Airport is a perfect way to kickstart a new era of international travel for the region. 

 “We are delighted to have Jetstar onboard to give Newcastle and the Greater Hunter its inaugural international wings from our new terminal. 

“This new international connection to Bali is just the beginning, opening doors to even greater opportunities for the region, stimulating tourism and strengthening ties between the Hunter region and Indonesia. 

“On a practical level, this new service saves our Bali-bound passengers the journey to Sydney and starts to solidify Newcastle Airport’s position as a genuine alternative for international travel. 

“Our long-term plan is to grow our international network and we are working behind the scenes with several airlines about additional routes we may be able to provide.” 

Newcastle Airport’s new international terminal, due for completion in August 2025, is the centrepiece of Newcastle Airport’s ambitious $250 million expansion project, addressing the growing demand for easy and convenient travel between Newcastle, the Greater Hunter and international destinations.  

“Our new international terminal reflects our commitment to the Hunter region’s growth,” Mr Horton said. “The connectivity it offers will make the Hunter a more attractive destination for international tourists and a more convenient option for locals looking to explore the world.” 

The Newcastle to Bali flights will operate three times a week providing travellers from the Hunter region and surrounding areas with convenient access to one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations. The route will carry more than 70,000 passengers annually with flights departing from Newcastle Airport on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The flight time is just under six hours. 

Newcastle Airport Chair Jude Munro AO said announcing international connectivity was a big step towards giving Newcastle and the Greater Hunter an airport that matches its global outlook and regional pride. “I would like to thank Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully and the whole team that has made our Bali route possible,” Ms Munro said.  

“Newcastle Airport will continue to secure new domestic and international routes for the region and grow as a significant gateway for international travel in NSW. Our Board is focused on securing more opportunities that deliver real outcomes for our region’s people, economy, and future. We look forward to working with all levels of government to be the airport our region deserves.” 

Visit www.newcastleairport.com.au for flight information on this Bali-ssimo island getaway and to make a booking.  Jetstar is having a 24-hour Route Launch Sale with one-way sale fares from Newcastle to Bali (Denpasar) available from midday today NSW time from just $199^ at Jetstar.com.  

A range of affordable and convenient parking options are also available with a Mystery Car Park offer of eight days from $88.  

* * * 

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:  

“The Minns Labor Government is proud to have worked with Newcastle Airport and Jetstar to secure Newcastle’s first ever international route, signalling the start of a new era of growth for Newcastle and the Hunter region. 

“Not only will this strategic investment boost the capacity of Newcastle Airport, it will open the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast to a major South-East Asian transport hub and a wealth of opportunity. 

“The first ongoing international flight for Newcastle Airport is a significant moment for the region’s visitor economy – and we’re only just getting started. I look forward to continuing to work with more airlines to grow the airport’s network and capacity.” 

Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully said: 

“The new international route is an exciting milestone as Jetstar continues to significantly expand its network.  We're thrilled to be the airline to launch Newcastle’s first international flights in more than five years with our new direct service from Newcastle to Bali.  

“Jetstar is committed to making travel more accessible, and people living in and around Newcastle will no longer need to drive to other airports to fly overseas, which means more time and money can go toward their holiday.  

 “We want to thank Newcastle Airport and the NSW Government for their support in making travel more accessible."  

#ENDS#

Further information
Kimberly Rigby, PR and Communications Officer
0431 380 403
krigby@newcastleairport.com.au

MEDIA CALL: 

Join Newcastle Airport and representatives from Newcastle Airport, Jetstar and Destination NSW this morning to mark the announcement of the airport’s first-ever direct international flights to Bali.

WHEN: Tuesday, 3 June 2025 
TIME: Arrival from 9:00am completing at 10:30am.
WHERE: Newcastle Airport, Williamtown NSW 

*Media are requested to park in short stay car parking lot. A representative of Newcastle Airport will meet you upon arrival outside the Arrivals Lounge. Footwear needs to be closed toe and no high heels. 

KEY LINKS:

• Media Pack available from 1:00pm. Includes video footage, interviews and photos: https://tinyurl.com/mvufs9zt
• Terminal expansion project timelapse video: https://youtu.be/TLW6rSRCXLY
• High-resolution renders: https://tinyurl.com/b22hvs63
• Watch our terminal expansion fly through video: https://youtu.be/zw1_Aw-heAU?si=ja-OWkHSXyYC8dri
• Newcastle Airport website: https://www.newcastleairport.com.au
• Newcastle Airport Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ntlairport
• Newcastle Airport 2036 Airport Vision: 2036-newcastle-airport-vision.pdf (newcastleairport.com.au)

KEY FACTS: Newcastle Airport Growth

• More than 1.2 million passengers flew with the airport in 2024 showing continued upward growth.
• Over the last 10 years, Newcastle Airport has grown six (6) times in enterprise value showing growth and resilience through times of adversity, including unprecedented bushfires, flooding and the Covid 19 pandemic.
• This period of growth highlights Newcastle Airport's resilience and adaptability but also its crucial role in supporting the region's economy and connectivity.
• 2023-2024 Financial Year saw
  • Newcastle Airport’s highest annual passenger numbers in the last five years, indicating high passenger confidence in our airport and in travel for our region.
  • Revenue across passenger facilitation and property and commercial activities was recorded at $42 million this Financial Year, significantly higher than pre COVID period.
• Newcastle Airport has more than tripled investment over the last decade ensuring the region receives the airport the region deserves, ($15.4M – $51M).
• Newcastle Airport has more than doubled the destinations it flies to in the last 10 years, (from 5 – 12). 

About Newcastle Airport:
Newcastle Airport is the gateway to Australia’s largest regional economy and is currently undertaking a transformative, once-in-a-generation $250M precinct expansion, set to be completed in 2025. This project will reposition the Hunter Region as a global player, both domestically and internationally. The terminal expansion is projected to generate 4,400 jobs and contribute $12.7 billion in economic activity over the next 20 years, solidifying our commitment to regional growth and development.