Photo courtesy : Jetstar
In a first for Australian low cost carrier Jetstar, the airline today has announced new flights between Sydney and Rarotonga which is the largest of the Cook Islands. The Pacific self governing island country in free association with New Zealand is a popular destination for kiwi holiday makers but for most Australians in recent times reaching the island’s have generally required a stop over in Auckland. Previously, Air New Zealand did provide a direct connection pre Covid but has not not resumed flights on the route.
The new twice weekly service is scheduled to take to the skies on June 29 2023 just in time for Australia’s busy winter school holiday period and will be serviced by Jetstar’s newest most fuel efficient aircraft the Airbus A321neo LR which is promised to carry up to 50,000 customers between the two destinations each year.
According to Jetstar’s flight schedule the outgoing flight from Sydney will be wheels up for an overnight departure at 9.30pm before arriving at Rarotonga at 7am the same day for a flight time of 5 hours 30 minutes whilst the inbound flight from Rarotonga will depart at 9am before arriving into Sydney at 12.30pm the following day.
Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully in remarks covering the announcement said “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.”
In support of the launch Jetstar have announced a 48 hour sale with fares starting at just $229 one way until Saturday 3rd December for selected travel dates mid way through next year.
