Jetstar to launch Brisbane-Honolulu flights

Jetstar is set to commence direct flights between Brisbane to Honolulu later this year, and just in time for the Christmas holiday season.

Using twin-aisle Airbus A330 aircraft with business class and economy cabins, the budget airline will take on Hawaiian Airlines – currently enjoying a monopoly on flights between Hawaii and the Sunshine State.

On Tuesdays and Fridays from December 15, JQ5 will depart Brisbane at 4:25pm, touching down in Honolulu at 6am on the same calendar day.

For the return journey, JQ6 is wheels up in Hawaii at 8:45am on Mondays and Thursdays, landing home in Brisbane at 2:30pm the following day.

A third weekly service will also be added during the peak period, departing on Sundays from both cities.

Although operated by the A330 at first, these Honolulu flights will eventually see the Boeing 787 Dreamliner – although a specific date hasn't yet been declared.

First launching flights between Sydney and Hawaii in 2006, the Jetstar further expanded to include non-stop Honolulu flights from Melbourne last year.

“Hawaii is one of the most popular destinations on our network and we’re delighted to be giving more Aussies the chance to experience this part of the world", said Jetstar Australia and New Zealand CEO David Hall.

Competitor Hawaiian Airlines recently gave its Brisbane to Honolulu flights a boost with a fourth flight each week, with its older Boeing 767 aircraft departing Queensland on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Later this month, Jetstar commences direct flights to Denpasar (Bali) on its new Boeing 787, marking Jetstar’s first non-stop international service from Brisbane.

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Chris C.

Chris is a a former contributor to Executive Traveller.