Jetstar flies direct from Sydney
Prime Minister Honourable Mark Brown announced today that Jetstar will launch non-stop flights into the Cook Islands from Sydney commencing on 29 June 2023.
This is the first time the carrier has operated flights between Australia and the Cook Islands, and this new service will provide two weekly return flights on Jetstar’s newest aircraft, the new generation, longer range Airbus A321neo LR.
Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, said today’s news was very important for the small island nation. He said tourism was the backbone of its economy, contributing 75 percent of GDP. “The new services from Jetstar will provide a major boost to our tourism sector and the financial impact for local tourism operators and the nation is significant,” he said. “We are delighted that Jetstar is making this commitment to the Cook Islands.” Prime Minister Mark Brown said Cook Islanders were always ready and waiting to welcome Australian visitors with open arms and warm smiles.
PM Brown said the Cook Islands was the ultimate tropical island destination, renowned for some of the world’s most incredible crystal-clear waters, and Aitutaki lagoon is recognised as one of the most beautiful in the world. The culture, cuisine, activities, and lifestyle of Cook Islanders is a drawcard for Australians, he added, as well as the wide range of accommodations, including full-service resorts, and boutique hotels. For visitors wanting to explore further and experience wilderness off-grid, there are multiple other islands in the Cook Islands to discover.
Jetstar CEO, Stephanie Tully, 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 the opportunity to escape the cold and explore one of the most beautiful destinations in the South Pacific,” said Ms. Tully.
“The direct Sydney to Rarotonga will be our second route to the popular island, but the first from Australia and we thank the Cook Islands Government for their ongoing support.”
Pacific Resort Hotel Group is excited for the news of this non-stop service which simplifies travel for our Australian friends and relatives wanting to experience the warmth of our islands for the first time, or return again for another taste of paradise.
The flights will depart Sydney on a Thursday and Sunday at 9.30pm, arriving in Rarotonga at 7.00am the same day. The flight then departs Rarotonga at 9.00am arriving back in Sydney at 12.30pm the following day. Jetstar already flies to Rarotonga from Auckland, New Zealand.
Full Press Release provided here.