Jetstar today inaugurated its first direct flight between Brisbane, Australia, and Cebu, Philippines, marking a historic expansion of aviation links between the two nations. This is the Philippines’ first scheduled service outside Manila from Jetstar, opening new avenues for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Marc Innes-Brown, attended the launch, highlighting the broader significance of the route. “This is a tangible demonstration of the Australian Government’s commitment to deepen economic ties with the Philippines,” he said. “The timing of this new service will also contribute to Cebu’s recovery from the recent typhoon.”
Since its founding in 2004, Jetstar has grown from a low-cost Australian carrier into one of Asia-Pacific’s leading airlines, serving millions across a network of more than 50 destinations. The Brisbane–Cebu route further strengthens people-to-people and business links, providing opportunities for Filipino and Australian travelers alike.
In September, Australia and the Philippines updated their bilateral air services arrangements, agreeing to double passenger capacity from 35 to 70 weekly flights to major Australian cities by Q4 2026. The agreement also expands traffic rights for cargo services and increases codeshare opportunities for airlines of both countries.
The new route aligns with Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, which aims to grow trade and investment ties with the Philippines and the wider region, reinforcing the countries’ long-standing partnership.