Perth-Manila, Brisbane-Cebu direct flights back with Jetstar
(Jetstar Airways photo)
Australian low-cost carrier Jetstar Airways is reviving its non-stop service to the Philippines, with direct flights to Manila and Cebu scheduled to launch in the fourth quarter of the year.
Jetstar, a wholly owned subsidiary of Australian flag carrier Qantas, will launch its Perth-Manila service starting Nov. 27, with the seasonal Brisbane-Cebu service on Dec. 3.
Jetstar’s service to Manila and Cebu will operate thrice a week.
The Perth-Manila flight will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, while the Manila-Perth flight will operate every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Both Brisbane-Cebu and Cebu-Brisbane flights will operate on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
Jetstar earlier sought the approval of the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) for the return of its direct flights to the country after the closure of its Manila-Darwin flights in 2014.
In a statement on its website, the airline said its expansion to Manila and Cebu is part of its broader rollout of 20 new domestic and international routes since last year.
“The launch of low-fare direct flights to the Philippines is an exciting milestone, unlocking two amazing destinations for Aussie travellers,” Jetstar Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Stephanie Tully said.
“From the pristine beaches of Cebu to the vibrant energy of Manila, these new routes offer greater value options for an overseas holiday,” she added.
Jetstar will fly in passengers from Australia using its Airbus A321LR aircraft, which is part of the airline’s quieter and more fuel-efficient fleet.
The two new routes will add over 108,000 low-fare seats every year.
With the launch of new flights, Jetstar is offering sale fares starting AU$188 (₱6,995) for a one-way flight from Brisbane to Cebu and AU$199 (₱7,405) for Perth to Manila.
Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is currently the only carrier serving the Perth–Manila route. PAL also operates flights to Brisbane, but the service is also from Manila.
As such, Jetstar will be the only carrier connecting Brisbane and Cebu beginning in December.
Last week, the CAB said it is considering doubling the seat allocation to Australia to 60,000 amid growing interest from its airlines.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the air talks between Australia and Philippine authorities are still ongoing, with the outcome expected within a few weeks.