Jetstar is planning to launch direct flights between Sydney and Rarotonga. The airline plans to operate its latest A321LR twice weekly with a capacity to carry almost 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.”
The Honourable Mark Brown, Cook Islands Prime Minister, said: “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.”
According to Airbus, the A321LR is 50% quieter, and 20% more fuel efficient than the current fleet of A320 aircraft, making it the lowest emissions aircraft in the Jetstar fleet.
This direct Sydney to Rarotonga route is the airline’s second route to the popular Cook Island.