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The Advertiser
5 hours ago
- Business
- The Advertiser
International Newcastle Airport flights announced: Bali here we come
WILLIAMTOWN is officially the Hunter's gateway to the world, with Newcastle Airport securing its first ongoing international service beyond Australasia. Jetstar will fly from Newcastle to Denpasar in Bali from October 21, linking the region to one of the country's most popular holiday destinations and enabling direct connections from there to more than 40 countries. The service will be formally announced on Tuesday morning. Bali-bound flights are planned to leave Newcastle at 9.30am on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from October 21 to land at 1.05pm Indonesian time. Return voyages are slated to depart Denpasar at 11.10pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the first week. From October 27 they are poised to leave at 10.20pm. They will arrive at 8.05am and 7.15am the next day, respectively. Newcastle Airport chief executive Linc Horton said the route's arrival "shows what the Hunter is capable of when we aim high". "We're proud to be delivering what our region has long asked for ... direct international flights from their local airport," he said. "Jetstar has been part of Newcastle Airport's story from the very beginning, and it's only fitting that they're the airline to take us into our international future. "Our long-term plan is to grow our international network, and we are working behind the scenes with several airlines about additional routes we may be able to provide." Newcastle will be Jetstar's tenth route to Bali. The new service will take slightly more than six hours and is scheduled to operate three times a week. The A321LR aircraft will provide more than 70,000 seats annually on the route. Jetstar Group chief executive Stephanie Tully described the route as an "exciting milestone". "Jetstar is committed to making travel more accessible, and people living in and around Newcastle will no longer need to drive to other airports to fly overseas, which means more time and money can go toward their holiday," she said. While the Port Stephens hub has previously flown to New Zealand directly, that service has been available only seasonally. Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said it was "a historic moment" and paid tribute to the contributions of the two councils, Port Stephens and Newcastle, that co-own the airport. "This means a lot to the people of Port Stephens and the Hunter," she said. "Becoming an international airport isn't easy, there are a whole lot of people who have pushed for this for years." Jude Munro, the Newcastle Airport chair, thanked Jetstar for its show of faith. "Newcastle Airport will continue to secure new domestic and international routes for the region and grow as a significant gateway for international travel in NSW," she said. "We look forward to working with all levels of government to be the airport our region deserves." Newcastle Airport's $250 million international terminal expansion is slated for completion in August 2025. NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper, whose government is backing the service through its Aviation Attraction Fund, said the route would boost the airport's capacity and "open the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast to a major South-East Asian transport hub and a wealth of opportunity". Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the new link was "just the beginning". "This is a game changer for the Hunter," Ms Catley said. "We're not just opening the door to Bali - we're opening our region up to the world. "With more direct international flights, we're positioning the Hunter as a tourism Mecca. It's about making it easier for the people who live here to explore the world and for the world to discover everything we have here." News of the Bali flights comes just days after the airport revealed it would fly direct to Perth three times a week from September this year. The flurry of announcements follows a period of expansion at the Williamtown site, including the construction of the new international terminal. A Newcastle Herald investigation previously revealed the airport had been in discussions with councils to access a financial injection of up to $40 million, and had been working to rein in spending and pay off escalating debt amid its expansion. The airport has repeatedly denied any financial problems and says it has more than tripled its investment over the past decade. It said revenue across passenger facilitation and property and commercial activities was $42 million this financial year. Port Stephens mayor Leah Anderson acknowledged the federal government's $121 million investment in delivering international capability. She said she was excited that the council's ownership of the expanded airport could pay off handsomely for ratepayers. "This asset is going to be so important for us as a council," she said. "When shareholder dividends return, we've got lots of plans for that money." Cr Anderson said she had been to Bali "on quite a few occasions" but was looking forward to avoiding the trip to Sydney to depart. "Bags are packed, I'm ready to go," she said. WILLIAMTOWN is officially the Hunter's gateway to the world, with Newcastle Airport securing its first ongoing international service beyond Australasia. Jetstar will fly from Newcastle to Denpasar in Bali from October 21, linking the region to one of the country's most popular holiday destinations and enabling direct connections from there to more than 40 countries. The service will be formally announced on Tuesday morning. Bali-bound flights are planned to leave Newcastle at 9.30am on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from October 21 to land at 1.05pm Indonesian time. Return voyages are slated to depart Denpasar at 11.10pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the first week. From October 27 they are poised to leave at 10.20pm. They will arrive at 8.05am and 7.15am the next day, respectively. Newcastle Airport chief executive Linc Horton said the route's arrival "shows what the Hunter is capable of when we aim high". "We're proud to be delivering what our region has long asked for ... direct international flights from their local airport," he said. "Jetstar has been part of Newcastle Airport's story from the very beginning, and it's only fitting that they're the airline to take us into our international future. "Our long-term plan is to grow our international network, and we are working behind the scenes with several airlines about additional routes we may be able to provide." Newcastle will be Jetstar's tenth route to Bali. The new service will take slightly more than six hours and is scheduled to operate three times a week. The A321LR aircraft will provide more than 70,000 seats annually on the route. Jetstar Group chief executive Stephanie Tully described the route as an "exciting milestone". "Jetstar is committed to making travel more accessible, and people living in and around Newcastle will no longer need to drive to other airports to fly overseas, which means more time and money can go toward their holiday," she said. While the Port Stephens hub has previously flown to New Zealand directly, that service has been available only seasonally. Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said it was "a historic moment" and paid tribute to the contributions of the two councils, Port Stephens and Newcastle, that co-own the airport. "This means a lot to the people of Port Stephens and the Hunter," she said. "Becoming an international airport isn't easy, there are a whole lot of people who have pushed for this for years." Jude Munro, the Newcastle Airport chair, thanked Jetstar for its show of faith. "Newcastle Airport will continue to secure new domestic and international routes for the region and grow as a significant gateway for international travel in NSW," she said. "We look forward to working with all levels of government to be the airport our region deserves." Newcastle Airport's $250 million international terminal expansion is slated for completion in August 2025. NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper, whose government is backing the service through its Aviation Attraction Fund, said the route would boost the airport's capacity and "open the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast to a major South-East Asian transport hub and a wealth of opportunity". Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the new link was "just the beginning". "This is a game changer for the Hunter," Ms Catley said. "We're not just opening the door to Bali - we're opening our region up to the world. "With more direct international flights, we're positioning the Hunter as a tourism Mecca. It's about making it easier for the people who live here to explore the world and for the world to discover everything we have here." News of the Bali flights comes just days after the airport revealed it would fly direct to Perth three times a week from September this year. The flurry of announcements follows a period of expansion at the Williamtown site, including the construction of the new international terminal. A Newcastle Herald investigation previously revealed the airport had been in discussions with councils to access a financial injection of up to $40 million, and had been working to rein in spending and pay off escalating debt amid its expansion. The airport has repeatedly denied any financial problems and says it has more than tripled its investment over the past decade. It said revenue across passenger facilitation and property and commercial activities was $42 million this financial year. Port Stephens mayor Leah Anderson acknowledged the federal government's $121 million investment in delivering international capability. She said she was excited that the council's ownership of the expanded airport could pay off handsomely for ratepayers. "This asset is going to be so important for us as a council," she said. "When shareholder dividends return, we've got lots of plans for that money." Cr Anderson said she had been to Bali "on quite a few occasions" but was looking forward to avoiding the trip to Sydney to depart. "Bags are packed, I'm ready to go," she said. WILLIAMTOWN is officially the Hunter's gateway to the world, with Newcastle Airport securing its first ongoing international service beyond Australasia. Jetstar will fly from Newcastle to Denpasar in Bali from October 21, linking the region to one of the country's most popular holiday destinations and enabling direct connections from there to more than 40 countries. The service will be formally announced on Tuesday morning. Bali-bound flights are planned to leave Newcastle at 9.30am on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from October 21 to land at 1.05pm Indonesian time. Return voyages are slated to depart Denpasar at 11.10pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the first week. From October 27 they are poised to leave at 10.20pm. They will arrive at 8.05am and 7.15am the next day, respectively. Newcastle Airport chief executive Linc Horton said the route's arrival "shows what the Hunter is capable of when we aim high". "We're proud to be delivering what our region has long asked for ... direct international flights from their local airport," he said. "Jetstar has been part of Newcastle Airport's story from the very beginning, and it's only fitting that they're the airline to take us into our international future. "Our long-term plan is to grow our international network, and we are working behind the scenes with several airlines about additional routes we may be able to provide." Newcastle will be Jetstar's tenth route to Bali. The new service will take slightly more than six hours and is scheduled to operate three times a week. The A321LR aircraft will provide more than 70,000 seats annually on the route. Jetstar Group chief executive Stephanie Tully described the route as an "exciting milestone". "Jetstar is committed to making travel more accessible, and people living in and around Newcastle will no longer need to drive to other airports to fly overseas, which means more time and money can go toward their holiday," she said. While the Port Stephens hub has previously flown to New Zealand directly, that service has been available only seasonally. Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said it was "a historic moment" and paid tribute to the contributions of the two councils, Port Stephens and Newcastle, that co-own the airport. "This means a lot to the people of Port Stephens and the Hunter," she said. "Becoming an international airport isn't easy, there are a whole lot of people who have pushed for this for years." Jude Munro, the Newcastle Airport chair, thanked Jetstar for its show of faith. "Newcastle Airport will continue to secure new domestic and international routes for the region and grow as a significant gateway for international travel in NSW," she said. "We look forward to working with all levels of government to be the airport our region deserves." Newcastle Airport's $250 million international terminal expansion is slated for completion in August 2025. NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper, whose government is backing the service through its Aviation Attraction Fund, said the route would boost the airport's capacity and "open the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast to a major South-East Asian transport hub and a wealth of opportunity". Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the new link was "just the beginning". "This is a game changer for the Hunter," Ms Catley said. "We're not just opening the door to Bali - we're opening our region up to the world. "With more direct international flights, we're positioning the Hunter as a tourism Mecca. It's about making it easier for the people who live here to explore the world and for the world to discover everything we have here." News of the Bali flights comes just days after the airport revealed it would fly direct to Perth three times a week from September this year. The flurry of announcements follows a period of expansion at the Williamtown site, including the construction of the new international terminal. A Newcastle Herald investigation previously revealed the airport had been in discussions with councils to access a financial injection of up to $40 million, and had been working to rein in spending and pay off escalating debt amid its expansion. The airport has repeatedly denied any financial problems and says it has more than tripled its investment over the past decade. It said revenue across passenger facilitation and property and commercial activities was $42 million this financial year. Port Stephens mayor Leah Anderson acknowledged the federal government's $121 million investment in delivering international capability. She said she was excited that the council's ownership of the expanded airport could pay off handsomely for ratepayers. "This asset is going to be so important for us as a council," she said. "When shareholder dividends return, we've got lots of plans for that money." Cr Anderson said she had been to Bali "on quite a few occasions" but was looking forward to avoiding the trip to Sydney to depart. "Bags are packed, I'm ready to go," she said. WILLIAMTOWN is officially the Hunter's gateway to the world, with Newcastle Airport securing its first ongoing international service beyond Australasia. Jetstar will fly from Newcastle to Denpasar in Bali from October 21, linking the region to one of the country's most popular holiday destinations and enabling direct connections from there to more than 40 countries. The service will be formally announced on Tuesday morning. Bali-bound flights are planned to leave Newcastle at 9.30am on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from October 21 to land at 1.05pm Indonesian time. Return voyages are slated to depart Denpasar at 11.10pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the first week. From October 27 they are poised to leave at 10.20pm. They will arrive at 8.05am and 7.15am the next day, respectively. Newcastle Airport chief executive Linc Horton said the route's arrival "shows what the Hunter is capable of when we aim high". "We're proud to be delivering what our region has long asked for ... direct international flights from their local airport," he said. "Jetstar has been part of Newcastle Airport's story from the very beginning, and it's only fitting that they're the airline to take us into our international future. "Our long-term plan is to grow our international network, and we are working behind the scenes with several airlines about additional routes we may be able to provide." Newcastle will be Jetstar's tenth route to Bali. The new service will take slightly more than six hours and is scheduled to operate three times a week. The A321LR aircraft will provide more than 70,000 seats annually on the route. Jetstar Group chief executive Stephanie Tully described the route as an "exciting milestone". "Jetstar is committed to making travel more accessible, and people living in and around Newcastle will no longer need to drive to other airports to fly overseas, which means more time and money can go toward their holiday," she said. While the Port Stephens hub has previously flown to New Zealand directly, that service has been available only seasonally. Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said it was "a historic moment" and paid tribute to the contributions of the two councils, Port Stephens and Newcastle, that co-own the airport. "This means a lot to the people of Port Stephens and the Hunter," she said. "Becoming an international airport isn't easy, there are a whole lot of people who have pushed for this for years." Jude Munro, the Newcastle Airport chair, thanked Jetstar for its show of faith. "Newcastle Airport will continue to secure new domestic and international routes for the region and grow as a significant gateway for international travel in NSW," she said. "We look forward to working with all levels of government to be the airport our region deserves." Newcastle Airport's $250 million international terminal expansion is slated for completion in August 2025. NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper, whose government is backing the service through its Aviation Attraction Fund, said the route would boost the airport's capacity and "open the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast to a major South-East Asian transport hub and a wealth of opportunity". Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the new link was "just the beginning". "This is a game changer for the Hunter," Ms Catley said. "We're not just opening the door to Bali - we're opening our region up to the world. "With more direct international flights, we're positioning the Hunter as a tourism Mecca. It's about making it easier for the people who live here to explore the world and for the world to discover everything we have here." News of the Bali flights comes just days after the airport revealed it would fly direct to Perth three times a week from September this year. The flurry of announcements follows a period of expansion at the Williamtown site, including the construction of the new international terminal. A Newcastle Herald investigation previously revealed the airport had been in discussions with councils to access a financial injection of up to $40 million, and had been working to rein in spending and pay off escalating debt amid its expansion. The airport has repeatedly denied any financial problems and says it has more than tripled its investment over the past decade. It said revenue across passenger facilitation and property and commercial activities was $42 million this financial year. Port Stephens mayor Leah Anderson acknowledged the federal government's $121 million investment in delivering international capability. She said she was excited that the council's ownership of the expanded airport could pay off handsomely for ratepayers. "This asset is going to be so important for us as a council," she said. "When shareholder dividends return, we've got lots of plans for that money." Cr Anderson said she had been to Bali "on quite a few occasions" but was looking forward to avoiding the trip to Sydney to depart. "Bags are packed, I'm ready to go," she said.
The Advertiser
a day ago
- Business
- The Advertiser
'Important opportunity': Newcastle Airport aerospace hub in survey spotlight
CITY of Newcastle will undertake a temperature check on community sentiment around a 76-hectare innovation, defence and aerospace hub next to Newcastle Airport and the Williamtown RAAF Base. The Astra Aerolab precinct will be home to defence contractor BAE Systems and Australia's first missile factory, after the federal government signed an $850 million deal with Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence Australia. Greens Cr Charlotte McCabe said it was appropriate for the council, as a co-owner of the airport, to understand the community's views on the development. "This survey is an important opportunity for the community to give feedback about the Astra Aerolab defence precinct, which the council jointly owns with Port Stephens Council," she said. "Revenue that's generated by the precinct will be used to deliver services and infrastructure in our Newcastle local government area, so the community needs to be fully informed and carefully consulted." The council will undertake a mix of phone, online and face-to-face surveys to gauge residents' sentiments, identify any issues or concerns and help build understanding of the project. Newcastle Airport, which is jointly owned by Newcastle and Port Stephens councils, owns Astra Aerolab. In August 2024, Cr McCabe said she felt she was "lied to" finding out the missile factory would be built on Newcastle Airport land after the council said the airport had no intention to secure explosive ordnance manufacturing tenants. In a report to councillors in June that same year, the council said there was "no explosive ordnance manufacture/assembly on land owned by Newcastle Airport" and "there is no intention by the airport to seek this type of tenant". Councillors made it clear they wanted more information about goings-on at the airport, particularly around Astra Aerolab and the Kongsberg facility. At the time, Cr McCabe said that as part-owner of the airport, the means by which it generates revenue for the council to spend in Newcastle should be in line with the council's own Investment and Borrowing Policy. City of Newcastle's policy stipulates it should avoid investment in "production or supply of armaments", which it lists as "socially harmful". A City of Newcastle chief executive report presented to councillors in 2024 said the council's investment policy did not apply to the airport, which was a separate entity controlled by a "majority independent" board. The Astra Aerolab site was purchased in 2018 as part of Newcastle Airport's master plan to transform the airport precinct. The aim was to attract new industries to the Hunter to support the defence sector, including advanced manufacturing. Ratepayers will not have a direct say in the future of the precinct as decisions are made by Newcastle Airport boards. Both councils have representative members on the boards. The council maintains ratepayers will not have to pay if Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab incur debts, arguing the company structures "ensure any debt incurred by Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab would be kept in the company's asset pool". The Newcastle Herald has previously reported that the airport's own documents show it has been diverting millions in unbudgeted cash reserves to prop up its burgeoning property development arm, which has placed significant financial strain on the business. According to the council, a recent external audit confirmed the airport is "financially sound" and forecast to make a net profit for the 2024/2025 financial year of "approximately $3 million". The first stage of civil infrastructure work at Astra Aerolab is complete, with future development stages under way. Construction of the first building is expected to start in August and be finished by the end of 2026. BAE Systems Australia and Kongsberg Defence Australia have already been secured as tenants, and the council said negotiations are under way with another potential "global aerospace company". CITY of Newcastle will undertake a temperature check on community sentiment around a 76-hectare innovation, defence and aerospace hub next to Newcastle Airport and the Williamtown RAAF Base. The Astra Aerolab precinct will be home to defence contractor BAE Systems and Australia's first missile factory, after the federal government signed an $850 million deal with Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence Australia. Greens Cr Charlotte McCabe said it was appropriate for the council, as a co-owner of the airport, to understand the community's views on the development. "This survey is an important opportunity for the community to give feedback about the Astra Aerolab defence precinct, which the council jointly owns with Port Stephens Council," she said. "Revenue that's generated by the precinct will be used to deliver services and infrastructure in our Newcastle local government area, so the community needs to be fully informed and carefully consulted." The council will undertake a mix of phone, online and face-to-face surveys to gauge residents' sentiments, identify any issues or concerns and help build understanding of the project. Newcastle Airport, which is jointly owned by Newcastle and Port Stephens councils, owns Astra Aerolab. In August 2024, Cr McCabe said she felt she was "lied to" finding out the missile factory would be built on Newcastle Airport land after the council said the airport had no intention to secure explosive ordnance manufacturing tenants. In a report to councillors in June that same year, the council said there was "no explosive ordnance manufacture/assembly on land owned by Newcastle Airport" and "there is no intention by the airport to seek this type of tenant". Councillors made it clear they wanted more information about goings-on at the airport, particularly around Astra Aerolab and the Kongsberg facility. At the time, Cr McCabe said that as part-owner of the airport, the means by which it generates revenue for the council to spend in Newcastle should be in line with the council's own Investment and Borrowing Policy. City of Newcastle's policy stipulates it should avoid investment in "production or supply of armaments", which it lists as "socially harmful". A City of Newcastle chief executive report presented to councillors in 2024 said the council's investment policy did not apply to the airport, which was a separate entity controlled by a "majority independent" board. The Astra Aerolab site was purchased in 2018 as part of Newcastle Airport's master plan to transform the airport precinct. The aim was to attract new industries to the Hunter to support the defence sector, including advanced manufacturing. Ratepayers will not have a direct say in the future of the precinct as decisions are made by Newcastle Airport boards. Both councils have representative members on the boards. The council maintains ratepayers will not have to pay if Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab incur debts, arguing the company structures "ensure any debt incurred by Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab would be kept in the company's asset pool". The Newcastle Herald has previously reported that the airport's own documents show it has been diverting millions in unbudgeted cash reserves to prop up its burgeoning property development arm, which has placed significant financial strain on the business. According to the council, a recent external audit confirmed the airport is "financially sound" and forecast to make a net profit for the 2024/2025 financial year of "approximately $3 million". The first stage of civil infrastructure work at Astra Aerolab is complete, with future development stages under way. Construction of the first building is expected to start in August and be finished by the end of 2026. BAE Systems Australia and Kongsberg Defence Australia have already been secured as tenants, and the council said negotiations are under way with another potential "global aerospace company". CITY of Newcastle will undertake a temperature check on community sentiment around a 76-hectare innovation, defence and aerospace hub next to Newcastle Airport and the Williamtown RAAF Base. The Astra Aerolab precinct will be home to defence contractor BAE Systems and Australia's first missile factory, after the federal government signed an $850 million deal with Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence Australia. Greens Cr Charlotte McCabe said it was appropriate for the council, as a co-owner of the airport, to understand the community's views on the development. "This survey is an important opportunity for the community to give feedback about the Astra Aerolab defence precinct, which the council jointly owns with Port Stephens Council," she said. "Revenue that's generated by the precinct will be used to deliver services and infrastructure in our Newcastle local government area, so the community needs to be fully informed and carefully consulted." The council will undertake a mix of phone, online and face-to-face surveys to gauge residents' sentiments, identify any issues or concerns and help build understanding of the project. Newcastle Airport, which is jointly owned by Newcastle and Port Stephens councils, owns Astra Aerolab. In August 2024, Cr McCabe said she felt she was "lied to" finding out the missile factory would be built on Newcastle Airport land after the council said the airport had no intention to secure explosive ordnance manufacturing tenants. In a report to councillors in June that same year, the council said there was "no explosive ordnance manufacture/assembly on land owned by Newcastle Airport" and "there is no intention by the airport to seek this type of tenant". Councillors made it clear they wanted more information about goings-on at the airport, particularly around Astra Aerolab and the Kongsberg facility. At the time, Cr McCabe said that as part-owner of the airport, the means by which it generates revenue for the council to spend in Newcastle should be in line with the council's own Investment and Borrowing Policy. City of Newcastle's policy stipulates it should avoid investment in "production or supply of armaments", which it lists as "socially harmful". A City of Newcastle chief executive report presented to councillors in 2024 said the council's investment policy did not apply to the airport, which was a separate entity controlled by a "majority independent" board. The Astra Aerolab site was purchased in 2018 as part of Newcastle Airport's master plan to transform the airport precinct. The aim was to attract new industries to the Hunter to support the defence sector, including advanced manufacturing. Ratepayers will not have a direct say in the future of the precinct as decisions are made by Newcastle Airport boards. Both councils have representative members on the boards. The council maintains ratepayers will not have to pay if Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab incur debts, arguing the company structures "ensure any debt incurred by Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab would be kept in the company's asset pool". The Newcastle Herald has previously reported that the airport's own documents show it has been diverting millions in unbudgeted cash reserves to prop up its burgeoning property development arm, which has placed significant financial strain on the business. According to the council, a recent external audit confirmed the airport is "financially sound" and forecast to make a net profit for the 2024/2025 financial year of "approximately $3 million". The first stage of civil infrastructure work at Astra Aerolab is complete, with future development stages under way. Construction of the first building is expected to start in August and be finished by the end of 2026. BAE Systems Australia and Kongsberg Defence Australia have already been secured as tenants, and the council said negotiations are under way with another potential "global aerospace company". CITY of Newcastle will undertake a temperature check on community sentiment around a 76-hectare innovation, defence and aerospace hub next to Newcastle Airport and the Williamtown RAAF Base. The Astra Aerolab precinct will be home to defence contractor BAE Systems and Australia's first missile factory, after the federal government signed an $850 million deal with Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence Australia. Greens Cr Charlotte McCabe said it was appropriate for the council, as a co-owner of the airport, to understand the community's views on the development. "This survey is an important opportunity for the community to give feedback about the Astra Aerolab defence precinct, which the council jointly owns with Port Stephens Council," she said. "Revenue that's generated by the precinct will be used to deliver services and infrastructure in our Newcastle local government area, so the community needs to be fully informed and carefully consulted." The council will undertake a mix of phone, online and face-to-face surveys to gauge residents' sentiments, identify any issues or concerns and help build understanding of the project. Newcastle Airport, which is jointly owned by Newcastle and Port Stephens councils, owns Astra Aerolab. In August 2024, Cr McCabe said she felt she was "lied to" finding out the missile factory would be built on Newcastle Airport land after the council said the airport had no intention to secure explosive ordnance manufacturing tenants. In a report to councillors in June that same year, the council said there was "no explosive ordnance manufacture/assembly on land owned by Newcastle Airport" and "there is no intention by the airport to seek this type of tenant". Councillors made it clear they wanted more information about goings-on at the airport, particularly around Astra Aerolab and the Kongsberg facility. At the time, Cr McCabe said that as part-owner of the airport, the means by which it generates revenue for the council to spend in Newcastle should be in line with the council's own Investment and Borrowing Policy. City of Newcastle's policy stipulates it should avoid investment in "production or supply of armaments", which it lists as "socially harmful". A City of Newcastle chief executive report presented to councillors in 2024 said the council's investment policy did not apply to the airport, which was a separate entity controlled by a "majority independent" board. The Astra Aerolab site was purchased in 2018 as part of Newcastle Airport's master plan to transform the airport precinct. The aim was to attract new industries to the Hunter to support the defence sector, including advanced manufacturing. Ratepayers will not have a direct say in the future of the precinct as decisions are made by Newcastle Airport boards. Both councils have representative members on the boards. The council maintains ratepayers will not have to pay if Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab incur debts, arguing the company structures "ensure any debt incurred by Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab would be kept in the company's asset pool". The Newcastle Herald has previously reported that the airport's own documents show it has been diverting millions in unbudgeted cash reserves to prop up its burgeoning property development arm, which has placed significant financial strain on the business. According to the council, a recent external audit confirmed the airport is "financially sound" and forecast to make a net profit for the 2024/2025 financial year of "approximately $3 million". The first stage of civil infrastructure work at Astra Aerolab is complete, with future development stages under way. Construction of the first building is expected to start in August and be finished by the end of 2026. BAE Systems Australia and Kongsberg Defence Australia have already been secured as tenants, and the council said negotiations are under way with another potential "global aerospace company".
The Advertiser
3 days ago
- Business
- The Advertiser
Newcastle Airport's transformation is a golden opportunity for region
Newcastle Airport has come a long way since commercial flights began operating out of a tin shed in 1948. It is not among the signature rural or remote airfields that provide limited, but essential, services for emergency, flight training, charter flights and industry. Newcastle Airport instead services a catchment of more than 1.1 million, connecting 1.2 million passengers a year to capital cities, regional centres and tourism hotspots. It directly supports more than 5700 local jobs and generates $1 billion in economic impact. With scale comes complexity and risk, and the airport has a corporate structure, board and a big balance sheet. The reporting that readers have seen provides insights into governance and risk management frameworks in action. As a government-owned asset, the airport also reports to councils under frameworks mandated by the Local Government Act. Aviation is one of the most regulated sectors in Australia, bringing heavy compliance and reporting obligations. Add requirements under the Corporations Act, Newcastle Airport is not a business that can avoid transparency and accountability: to shareholders, markets, regulators or the public. As the airport expands, so do the obligations, revenue and operational costs, requiring more ambitious investment to maintain standards and competitiveness. More flights to more destinations, more competition on airfares, more freight options for NSW suppliers, more jobs, and the option to avoid driving to Sydney or risk a domestic connection to another city for an international flight. Newcastle Airport is advanced in plans to be the airport we deserve, with investment in an international runway and terminal. This week, direct flights to Perth were announced, providing one-stop links to London and Europe. No different to strategies progressed by most major airports, the airport is investing in property development that diversifies services and income. A 2023 Deloitte Access Economics report shows employment and economic contribution from Australian airport precincts eclipsing that of core aviation activities. Even land owners near Newcastle Airport get the opportunity, as complementary development proposals are pursued. Air freight is also an economic driver, comprising 13 per cent of Australian exports. We expect the airport to review opportunities to build this, as they have in partnership with the Joint Organisation of Councils in the proposal for an air cargo terminal. The region has much more at stake in the success of the airport than just securing that coveted flight to Singapore or the US, made possible by airport upgrades. We are a $91 billion economy entering structural adjustment as the contribution of coal declines, with 55,000 jobs at risk over the next 15 years. These government figures are not modelled on demand for coal. They reflect the supply-side hard baked into our future, including dates for the closure of coal-fired power stations and planning approvals for mines. You can hear the urgency from Upper Hunter mayors as they join advocacy for investment in the airport as part of the solution. When developments in the airport precinct, international upgrades and a cargo terminal are realised, these collectively will replace more than 16 per cent of the predicted jobs deficit. This is not a game for our region. Real jobs, communities and economic security are at risk. The committee is advocating hard with government and business for focus and investment, including the airport, positioning the region as grown-up, unified, professional and a sure bet. But the expression of local politics on airport matters shows that narrower interests are at play. In an own goal for the Hunter, this has bled into federal politics, with the Opposition threatening to air the matter in Senate Estimates. This is damaging negotiations on airport deals to secure the partnerships we need. The entire region, not just Newcastle, has an interest in the success of the airport. With the new terminal opening within months, now is the time to back-in one of the region's most important economic engines. Efforts should be focused on how to increase the feasibility of this generational opportunity and maximise benefits for Hunter residents, businesses and the economy. Newcastle Airport has come a long way since commercial flights began operating out of a tin shed in 1948. It is not among the signature rural or remote airfields that provide limited, but essential, services for emergency, flight training, charter flights and industry. Newcastle Airport instead services a catchment of more than 1.1 million, connecting 1.2 million passengers a year to capital cities, regional centres and tourism hotspots. It directly supports more than 5700 local jobs and generates $1 billion in economic impact. With scale comes complexity and risk, and the airport has a corporate structure, board and a big balance sheet. The reporting that readers have seen provides insights into governance and risk management frameworks in action. As a government-owned asset, the airport also reports to councils under frameworks mandated by the Local Government Act. Aviation is one of the most regulated sectors in Australia, bringing heavy compliance and reporting obligations. Add requirements under the Corporations Act, Newcastle Airport is not a business that can avoid transparency and accountability: to shareholders, markets, regulators or the public. As the airport expands, so do the obligations, revenue and operational costs, requiring more ambitious investment to maintain standards and competitiveness. More flights to more destinations, more competition on airfares, more freight options for NSW suppliers, more jobs, and the option to avoid driving to Sydney or risk a domestic connection to another city for an international flight. Newcastle Airport is advanced in plans to be the airport we deserve, with investment in an international runway and terminal. This week, direct flights to Perth were announced, providing one-stop links to London and Europe. No different to strategies progressed by most major airports, the airport is investing in property development that diversifies services and income. A 2023 Deloitte Access Economics report shows employment and economic contribution from Australian airport precincts eclipsing that of core aviation activities. Even land owners near Newcastle Airport get the opportunity, as complementary development proposals are pursued. Air freight is also an economic driver, comprising 13 per cent of Australian exports. We expect the airport to review opportunities to build this, as they have in partnership with the Joint Organisation of Councils in the proposal for an air cargo terminal. The region has much more at stake in the success of the airport than just securing that coveted flight to Singapore or the US, made possible by airport upgrades. We are a $91 billion economy entering structural adjustment as the contribution of coal declines, with 55,000 jobs at risk over the next 15 years. These government figures are not modelled on demand for coal. They reflect the supply-side hard baked into our future, including dates for the closure of coal-fired power stations and planning approvals for mines. You can hear the urgency from Upper Hunter mayors as they join advocacy for investment in the airport as part of the solution. When developments in the airport precinct, international upgrades and a cargo terminal are realised, these collectively will replace more than 16 per cent of the predicted jobs deficit. This is not a game for our region. Real jobs, communities and economic security are at risk. The committee is advocating hard with government and business for focus and investment, including the airport, positioning the region as grown-up, unified, professional and a sure bet. But the expression of local politics on airport matters shows that narrower interests are at play. In an own goal for the Hunter, this has bled into federal politics, with the Opposition threatening to air the matter in Senate Estimates. This is damaging negotiations on airport deals to secure the partnerships we need. The entire region, not just Newcastle, has an interest in the success of the airport. With the new terminal opening within months, now is the time to back-in one of the region's most important economic engines. Efforts should be focused on how to increase the feasibility of this generational opportunity and maximise benefits for Hunter residents, businesses and the economy. Newcastle Airport has come a long way since commercial flights began operating out of a tin shed in 1948. It is not among the signature rural or remote airfields that provide limited, but essential, services for emergency, flight training, charter flights and industry. Newcastle Airport instead services a catchment of more than 1.1 million, connecting 1.2 million passengers a year to capital cities, regional centres and tourism hotspots. It directly supports more than 5700 local jobs and generates $1 billion in economic impact. With scale comes complexity and risk, and the airport has a corporate structure, board and a big balance sheet. The reporting that readers have seen provides insights into governance and risk management frameworks in action. As a government-owned asset, the airport also reports to councils under frameworks mandated by the Local Government Act. Aviation is one of the most regulated sectors in Australia, bringing heavy compliance and reporting obligations. Add requirements under the Corporations Act, Newcastle Airport is not a business that can avoid transparency and accountability: to shareholders, markets, regulators or the public. As the airport expands, so do the obligations, revenue and operational costs, requiring more ambitious investment to maintain standards and competitiveness. More flights to more destinations, more competition on airfares, more freight options for NSW suppliers, more jobs, and the option to avoid driving to Sydney or risk a domestic connection to another city for an international flight. Newcastle Airport is advanced in plans to be the airport we deserve, with investment in an international runway and terminal. This week, direct flights to Perth were announced, providing one-stop links to London and Europe. No different to strategies progressed by most major airports, the airport is investing in property development that diversifies services and income. A 2023 Deloitte Access Economics report shows employment and economic contribution from Australian airport precincts eclipsing that of core aviation activities. Even land owners near Newcastle Airport get the opportunity, as complementary development proposals are pursued. Air freight is also an economic driver, comprising 13 per cent of Australian exports. We expect the airport to review opportunities to build this, as they have in partnership with the Joint Organisation of Councils in the proposal for an air cargo terminal. The region has much more at stake in the success of the airport than just securing that coveted flight to Singapore or the US, made possible by airport upgrades. We are a $91 billion economy entering structural adjustment as the contribution of coal declines, with 55,000 jobs at risk over the next 15 years. These government figures are not modelled on demand for coal. They reflect the supply-side hard baked into our future, including dates for the closure of coal-fired power stations and planning approvals for mines. You can hear the urgency from Upper Hunter mayors as they join advocacy for investment in the airport as part of the solution. When developments in the airport precinct, international upgrades and a cargo terminal are realised, these collectively will replace more than 16 per cent of the predicted jobs deficit. This is not a game for our region. Real jobs, communities and economic security are at risk. The committee is advocating hard with government and business for focus and investment, including the airport, positioning the region as grown-up, unified, professional and a sure bet. But the expression of local politics on airport matters shows that narrower interests are at play. In an own goal for the Hunter, this has bled into federal politics, with the Opposition threatening to air the matter in Senate Estimates. This is damaging negotiations on airport deals to secure the partnerships we need. The entire region, not just Newcastle, has an interest in the success of the airport. With the new terminal opening within months, now is the time to back-in one of the region's most important economic engines. Efforts should be focused on how to increase the feasibility of this generational opportunity and maximise benefits for Hunter residents, businesses and the economy. Newcastle Airport has come a long way since commercial flights began operating out of a tin shed in 1948. It is not among the signature rural or remote airfields that provide limited, but essential, services for emergency, flight training, charter flights and industry. Newcastle Airport instead services a catchment of more than 1.1 million, connecting 1.2 million passengers a year to capital cities, regional centres and tourism hotspots. It directly supports more than 5700 local jobs and generates $1 billion in economic impact. With scale comes complexity and risk, and the airport has a corporate structure, board and a big balance sheet. The reporting that readers have seen provides insights into governance and risk management frameworks in action. As a government-owned asset, the airport also reports to councils under frameworks mandated by the Local Government Act. Aviation is one of the most regulated sectors in Australia, bringing heavy compliance and reporting obligations. Add requirements under the Corporations Act, Newcastle Airport is not a business that can avoid transparency and accountability: to shareholders, markets, regulators or the public. As the airport expands, so do the obligations, revenue and operational costs, requiring more ambitious investment to maintain standards and competitiveness. More flights to more destinations, more competition on airfares, more freight options for NSW suppliers, more jobs, and the option to avoid driving to Sydney or risk a domestic connection to another city for an international flight. Newcastle Airport is advanced in plans to be the airport we deserve, with investment in an international runway and terminal. This week, direct flights to Perth were announced, providing one-stop links to London and Europe. No different to strategies progressed by most major airports, the airport is investing in property development that diversifies services and income. A 2023 Deloitte Access Economics report shows employment and economic contribution from Australian airport precincts eclipsing that of core aviation activities. Even land owners near Newcastle Airport get the opportunity, as complementary development proposals are pursued. Air freight is also an economic driver, comprising 13 per cent of Australian exports. We expect the airport to review opportunities to build this, as they have in partnership with the Joint Organisation of Councils in the proposal for an air cargo terminal. The region has much more at stake in the success of the airport than just securing that coveted flight to Singapore or the US, made possible by airport upgrades. We are a $91 billion economy entering structural adjustment as the contribution of coal declines, with 55,000 jobs at risk over the next 15 years. These government figures are not modelled on demand for coal. They reflect the supply-side hard baked into our future, including dates for the closure of coal-fired power stations and planning approvals for mines. You can hear the urgency from Upper Hunter mayors as they join advocacy for investment in the airport as part of the solution. When developments in the airport precinct, international upgrades and a cargo terminal are realised, these collectively will replace more than 16 per cent of the predicted jobs deficit. This is not a game for our region. Real jobs, communities and economic security are at risk. The committee is advocating hard with government and business for focus and investment, including the airport, positioning the region as grown-up, unified, professional and a sure bet. But the expression of local politics on airport matters shows that narrower interests are at play. In an own goal for the Hunter, this has bled into federal politics, with the Opposition threatening to air the matter in Senate Estimates. This is damaging negotiations on airport deals to secure the partnerships we need. The entire region, not just Newcastle, has an interest in the success of the airport. With the new terminal opening within months, now is the time to back-in one of the region's most important economic engines. Efforts should be focused on how to increase the feasibility of this generational opportunity and maximise benefits for Hunter residents, businesses and the economy.
Courier-Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Courier-Mail
Qantas announces direct flights between Newcastle and Perth, reinstates Perth-to-Hobart service
Don't miss out on the headlines from Breaking News. Followed categories will be added to My News. Qantas has announced its first direct flights between Perth and Newcastle, cutting out a lengthy drive for travellers commuting between the cities. The New QantasLink route launching on September 8 will make it easier for Aussies looking to travel to and from the east and west coast, with flights operating three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Mondays. The five-hour direct flight is set to save commuters time, as a flight or lengthy drive between Newcastle and Sydney will no longer be required. The route will be chartered by a 150-seat Airbus A319, meaning that 900 seats are available per week and more than 45,000 annually to and from Western Australia. The new QantasLink route will launch in September. Picture: NewsWire / Christian Gilles Perth is the fifth most travelled-to destination for people in the Newcastle Airport catchment, and a Newcastle Airport survey in July last year revealed that an overwhelming 97 per cent of respondents said they would likely travel to Perth if direct flights were available. The new Perth service is forecast to inject about $21.7m into the Newcastle economy each year and create 74 new jobs. Newcastle Airport chief executive Linc Horton said the 'direct to Perth' service was necessary for the region. 'We've worked hard to secure this route because it's one our community and extended region needs,' Mr Horton said. Flights will operate three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Mondays. Picture: NewsWire / James Gourley 'The five-hour service saves travellers a lengthy drive to Sydney and connects Newcastle and the Greater Hunter directly with WA's resources sector, creating enormous potential for business travel and fly-in fly-out operations. 'It also brings loved ones together and unlocks international one-stop connections via Perth to cities like London, Paris, Johannesburg and seasonal to Rome. 'Western Australia is a vital part of Australia's economy, and this service gives the Hunter's businesses and workers faster, easier access to it. It also supports our strategy to strengthen the airport's role as a key economic enabler for the region. 'The benefits aren't just outbound. With direct access to the Hunter, Perth-based travellers now have easier reach to a region known for wine, coastlines, defence and energy innovation.' Port Stephens Mayor and Newcastle Airport director Leah Anderson said the region deserved direct flights to Perth. Qantas will reinstate a direct Perth-to-Hobart service. Picture: NewsWire / Dylan Coker 'It's about time saved, convenience gained and opportunities unlocked. For the people of Newcastle, Port Stephens, the Greater Hunter and south through to the Central Coast, whether it's for FIFO work, family reunions or seeing more of Australia – this new route makes travel easier and more accessible,' she said. Qantas will also reinstate a direct Perth-to-Hobart service for the first time since 2023, operating three times a week most months of the year. Flights between Perth and Hobart will begin from September 26 and will be available year-round outside of May, June and August. The services will be available for booking on from Thursday morning. Picture: NewsWire / Andrew Henshaw The flights, also chartered by A319 aircraft, are available on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays and will add an additional 32,000 seats annually. The services will be available for booking on from Thursday morning, with economy launch fares starting from $299 Perth-Newcastle one-way and $299 Perth-Hobart one-way. The sale ends 11.59pm AEST on Monday, June 2, unless sold out prior. QantasLink chief executive Rachel Yangoyan said the company was proud to be supporting WA's resource and tourism sector. 'These direct services will not only boost inbound visitors to WA but offer more opportunities for those working in the resource sectors across the country with improved options for their travel,' she said. Originally published as Qantas announces direct flights between Newcastle and Perth
The Advertiser
5 days ago
- Business
- The Advertiser
Ticket price of direct Newcastle to Perth spring flights revealed
With direct flights from Newcastle to Perth four months away, the Newcastle Airport has announced a three-day sale on tickets. For 72 hours Novocastrians can book a flight to the West coast starting from $299 one-way. It is understood that the year-round cost of flights would sit around $400 one-way. Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the airport had been working with their counterparts in Perth for about 12 years and closely for the last five. "If you think about that price and how much it costs you just to get down to Sydney, you're avoiding all of that," Mr Horton said. "It feels like such a long time coming but to be able to say we now have a direct flight to Perth, is a great relief because it is what our region has asked for and now we've got the opportunity of delivering it," he said. On Wednesday, the Newcastle Herald reported QantasLink would offer Perth flights from September 8 and run three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Mondays with a 150-seat Airbus A319. The five-hour flight was expected to carry 900 passengers a week and 45,000 passengers annually. In the same time period, flights from Sydney to Perth start at around $295 on average with Jetstar offering $259 tickets, Virgin Australia with $229 and Qantas with $399. Mr Horton said their plan was to hopefully expand and grow its Perth flights to potentially more days in the future. "For locals in the Hunter Region it means you can avoid the three-hour down the freeway to Sydney and you can connect if you're working in the resource industry, visiting friends and family, and other businesses and general tourism," Mr Horton. "You can fly through the network, fly to Perth and then go on a plane to Europe," he said. The CEO said tourists, businesses and workers alike would hopefully take advantage of the new flight path. Travellers took to social media to celebrate the new flight route, saying they were excited to be able to visit their family and friends with more ease. While others said they had their eye on a west coast holiday this summer. General manager of Mount Pleasant Wines Adrian Sparks said the new flights would only help the winery industry as well as all tour operators in the region. "Anything that can attract visitors to the Hunter Valley is worth its weight in gold," he said. He said the route would be beneficial as there were some Hunter businesses that also operated wineries in the Margaret River in Western Australia. "The more flights we can get in and out of Newcastle the better," he said. Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes said the route helped foster the ongoing business connections with Perth. He said partnerships existed across multiple sectors including manufacturing, energy and defence. "I think it is incumbent on the rest of the visitor economy infrastructure that we have here, in and around region to take it from there and hopefully impress people," he said Chair of Newcastle Tourism Industry Group Dominic May said he hoped visitors would come and explore the region and take in the "beautiful" beaches, bays, lakes and vineyards. "I'm really excited for Hunter locals to not only explore Western Australia but to also explore the world and easily connect to Europe," he said. With direct flights from Newcastle to Perth four months away, the Newcastle Airport has announced a three-day sale on tickets. For 72 hours Novocastrians can book a flight to the West coast starting from $299 one-way. It is understood that the year-round cost of flights would sit around $400 one-way. Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the airport had been working with their counterparts in Perth for about 12 years and closely for the last five. "If you think about that price and how much it costs you just to get down to Sydney, you're avoiding all of that," Mr Horton said. "It feels like such a long time coming but to be able to say we now have a direct flight to Perth, is a great relief because it is what our region has asked for and now we've got the opportunity of delivering it," he said. On Wednesday, the Newcastle Herald reported QantasLink would offer Perth flights from September 8 and run three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Mondays with a 150-seat Airbus A319. The five-hour flight was expected to carry 900 passengers a week and 45,000 passengers annually. In the same time period, flights from Sydney to Perth start at around $295 on average with Jetstar offering $259 tickets, Virgin Australia with $229 and Qantas with $399. Mr Horton said their plan was to hopefully expand and grow its Perth flights to potentially more days in the future. "For locals in the Hunter Region it means you can avoid the three-hour down the freeway to Sydney and you can connect if you're working in the resource industry, visiting friends and family, and other businesses and general tourism," Mr Horton. "You can fly through the network, fly to Perth and then go on a plane to Europe," he said. The CEO said tourists, businesses and workers alike would hopefully take advantage of the new flight path. Travellers took to social media to celebrate the new flight route, saying they were excited to be able to visit their family and friends with more ease. While others said they had their eye on a west coast holiday this summer. General manager of Mount Pleasant Wines Adrian Sparks said the new flights would only help the winery industry as well as all tour operators in the region. "Anything that can attract visitors to the Hunter Valley is worth its weight in gold," he said. He said the route would be beneficial as there were some Hunter businesses that also operated wineries in the Margaret River in Western Australia. "The more flights we can get in and out of Newcastle the better," he said. Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes said the route helped foster the ongoing business connections with Perth. He said partnerships existed across multiple sectors including manufacturing, energy and defence. "I think it is incumbent on the rest of the visitor economy infrastructure that we have here, in and around region to take it from there and hopefully impress people," he said Chair of Newcastle Tourism Industry Group Dominic May said he hoped visitors would come and explore the region and take in the "beautiful" beaches, bays, lakes and vineyards. "I'm really excited for Hunter locals to not only explore Western Australia but to also explore the world and easily connect to Europe," he said. With direct flights from Newcastle to Perth four months away, the Newcastle Airport has announced a three-day sale on tickets. For 72 hours Novocastrians can book a flight to the West coast starting from $299 one-way. It is understood that the year-round cost of flights would sit around $400 one-way. Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the airport had been working with their counterparts in Perth for about 12 years and closely for the last five. "If you think about that price and how much it costs you just to get down to Sydney, you're avoiding all of that," Mr Horton said. "It feels like such a long time coming but to be able to say we now have a direct flight to Perth, is a great relief because it is what our region has asked for and now we've got the opportunity of delivering it," he said. On Wednesday, the Newcastle Herald reported QantasLink would offer Perth flights from September 8 and run three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Mondays with a 150-seat Airbus A319. The five-hour flight was expected to carry 900 passengers a week and 45,000 passengers annually. In the same time period, flights from Sydney to Perth start at around $295 on average with Jetstar offering $259 tickets, Virgin Australia with $229 and Qantas with $399. Mr Horton said their plan was to hopefully expand and grow its Perth flights to potentially more days in the future. "For locals in the Hunter Region it means you can avoid the three-hour down the freeway to Sydney and you can connect if you're working in the resource industry, visiting friends and family, and other businesses and general tourism," Mr Horton. "You can fly through the network, fly to Perth and then go on a plane to Europe," he said. The CEO said tourists, businesses and workers alike would hopefully take advantage of the new flight path. Travellers took to social media to celebrate the new flight route, saying they were excited to be able to visit their family and friends with more ease. While others said they had their eye on a west coast holiday this summer. General manager of Mount Pleasant Wines Adrian Sparks said the new flights would only help the winery industry as well as all tour operators in the region. "Anything that can attract visitors to the Hunter Valley is worth its weight in gold," he said. He said the route would be beneficial as there were some Hunter businesses that also operated wineries in the Margaret River in Western Australia. "The more flights we can get in and out of Newcastle the better," he said. Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes said the route helped foster the ongoing business connections with Perth. He said partnerships existed across multiple sectors including manufacturing, energy and defence. "I think it is incumbent on the rest of the visitor economy infrastructure that we have here, in and around region to take it from there and hopefully impress people," he said Chair of Newcastle Tourism Industry Group Dominic May said he hoped visitors would come and explore the region and take in the "beautiful" beaches, bays, lakes and vineyards. "I'm really excited for Hunter locals to not only explore Western Australia but to also explore the world and easily connect to Europe," he said. With direct flights from Newcastle to Perth four months away, the Newcastle Airport has announced a three-day sale on tickets. For 72 hours Novocastrians can book a flight to the West coast starting from $299 one-way. It is understood that the year-round cost of flights would sit around $400 one-way. Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the airport had been working with their counterparts in Perth for about 12 years and closely for the last five. "If you think about that price and how much it costs you just to get down to Sydney, you're avoiding all of that," Mr Horton said. "It feels like such a long time coming but to be able to say we now have a direct flight to Perth, is a great relief because it is what our region has asked for and now we've got the opportunity of delivering it," he said. On Wednesday, the Newcastle Herald reported QantasLink would offer Perth flights from September 8 and run three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Mondays with a 150-seat Airbus A319. The five-hour flight was expected to carry 900 passengers a week and 45,000 passengers annually. In the same time period, flights from Sydney to Perth start at around $295 on average with Jetstar offering $259 tickets, Virgin Australia with $229 and Qantas with $399. Mr Horton said their plan was to hopefully expand and grow its Perth flights to potentially more days in the future. "For locals in the Hunter Region it means you can avoid the three-hour down the freeway to Sydney and you can connect if you're working in the resource industry, visiting friends and family, and other businesses and general tourism," Mr Horton. "You can fly through the network, fly to Perth and then go on a plane to Europe," he said. The CEO said tourists, businesses and workers alike would hopefully take advantage of the new flight path. Travellers took to social media to celebrate the new flight route, saying they were excited to be able to visit their family and friends with more ease. While others said they had their eye on a west coast holiday this summer. General manager of Mount Pleasant Wines Adrian Sparks said the new flights would only help the winery industry as well as all tour operators in the region. "Anything that can attract visitors to the Hunter Valley is worth its weight in gold," he said. He said the route would be beneficial as there were some Hunter businesses that also operated wineries in the Margaret River in Western Australia. "The more flights we can get in and out of Newcastle the better," he said. Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes said the route helped foster the ongoing business connections with Perth. He said partnerships existed across multiple sectors including manufacturing, energy and defence. "I think it is incumbent on the rest of the visitor economy infrastructure that we have here, in and around region to take it from there and hopefully impress people," he said Chair of Newcastle Tourism Industry Group Dominic May said he hoped visitors would come and explore the region and take in the "beautiful" beaches, bays, lakes and vineyards. "I'm really excited for Hunter locals to not only explore Western Australia but to also explore the world and easily connect to Europe," he said.
