JETSTAR launched its Australian flight to the Cook Islands on Thursday, with the service to operate three times a week using the carrier’s new Airbus A321neo LR aircraft.
Passengers on the inaugural flight were welcomed by an island band, cultural dancers and warm Pacific Island hospitality in celebration of the milestone occasion, which saw Jetstar become the first Aussie airline in three decades to fly directly to the Cook Islands.
Jetstar’s Chief Customer Officer Alan McIntyre, who was present at Sydney Airport to see off the first flight, said, “we are excited to be providing the only direct option between Australia and the Cook Islands, making it a very convenient way to enjoy a tropical holiday.
“Our everyday low fares mean Australians can enjoy Rarotonga’s beautiful warm weather, white sand beaches and sparkling blue waters for less. We thank the Cook Islands Government for its ongoing support of the new route.”
Travellers can book the Sydney-Rarotonga route now on jetstar.com and take advantage of an exclusive five-day sale, with fares priced from $249 for travel on select dates between August and November.
“The people of the Cook Islands and our tourism suppliers have been waiting in anticipation for Jetstar’s flight arrival, and welcome more than double the capacity of any previous airline who has serviced the Cook Islands from Australia,” Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown enthused.
The last Aussie airline to operate a service between Australia and the Cook Islands was Ansett, with the now defunct carrier’s subsidiary flying with Cook Islands International and Polynesian livery, ceasing services in 1990.
