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Christchurch Airport will add Perth to its Australian network, with Jetstar confirming new seasonal direct services from October 2026 to March 2027.
The non-stop flights will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, adding more than 30,000 seats across the summer season. The service will be operated by Jetstar’s Perth-based Airbus A321LR aircraft, with a flight time of just more than seven hours.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says the new service reflects strong demand across the Tasman.
“We are stoked to add another destination to our Australian network. It’s fantastic news, giving South Islanders more choice and strengthening our ties with our most important market.
“Growing these connections supports tourism, business and trade, and ensures Christchurch remains a strong, competitive gateway for the South Island,” says Justin.
The Perth route builds on recent growth across the Tasman, including new Cairns and Adelaide services and increased frequencies to Melbourne. Perth joins existing direct services to Sydney, the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
Australia has now recovered to pre-COVID travel levels and remains the airport’s largest international market.
Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully says the airline is focused on affordable travel options.
“We’re thrilled to be launching our new nonstop service between Christchurch and Perth, giving New Zealanders an affordable and convenient way to connect with Western Australia.”
The new route also provides onward connections via the Qantas Group network to destinations including Bali, London, Paris, Johannesburg, Delhi and Rome.
Western Australia Minister for Tourism Reece Whitby says the service strengthens links with New Zealand.
“This service strengthens our connection to New Zealand, one of our most valuable international visitor markets, and supports our tourism industry.”
