International Flights Return as Second Auckland Season Takes Off

Newcastle Airport and the region it services celebrated the return of international flights today, with the official start of a new partnership with Virgin Australia to offer seasonal direct flights between Newcastle and Auckland.

Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock says the partnership with Virgin Australia reflects the strength of support and overall results from last year’s inaugural season:

“On the back of last year’s success, we’re very excited to welcome the first flight from Auckland for the 2019/2020 season.

“Last year’s season delivered an estimated $5.4million of economic benefit to our region and with even more visitors expected this year we anticipate this continuing to grow.

“Residents of the Hunter, Central Coast and Northern NSW deserve the international connectivity this route brings as well as the opportunity to promote our region to new international visitors. This route cements our role as NSW’s second international Airport and is why we believe an upgraded airport with ability to take wide-body aircraft is essential to deliver on our promise to be the Airport the region deserves,” Dr Cock said.

Virgin Australia General Manager, Network and Revenue Management, Russell Shaw said:

“We’re delighted to be launching our seasonal Newcastle – Auckland flights again, providing Novocastrians with the quickest and most convenient journey over to Auckland for the second year.

“From today, 12,500 travellers will be able to fly directly between the cities, driving tourism growth and opportunities for both regions,” Mr Shaw said.

The 13-week seasonal service will operate up to three return services per week during the peak holiday period from 21 November 2019 to 16 February 2020, with potential to grow over subsequent years.