East meets west – direct flights to Perth set for take off
Photography courtesy of Tourism Western Australia – Quokka, Rottnest Island
In a milestone move for regional connectivity, Newcastle Airport has announced its first-ever direct flights to Perth, a game-changer for the Hunter and beyond.
Operated by QantasLink, the new service will begin on Monday, September 8, 2025, offering a long-awaited link between the east and west coasts – and unlocking significant benefits for business, tourism, and the local economy.
The route will run three times a week – Monday, Friday, Sunday – using a 150-seat Airbus A319 aircraft. That equates to 900 seats weekly and more than 45,000 annually between Newcastle and Perth.
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the announcement reflects both community demand and strategic growth.
“We’ve worked hard to secure this route because it’s one our community and extended region needs. 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.”
Photography courtesy of Tourism Western Australian – Perth Explorer Tours, Perth
The announcement comes in response to overwhelming public interest. A survey conducted by Newcastle Airport last year received over 5,000 responses in just one day, with 97% of respondents saying they would travel to Perth if direct flights were available.
This new service is forecast to inject $21.7 million into the local economy each year and create 74 new jobs – reinforcing the airport’s role as a key driver of regional development.
Chair of Newcastle Airport, Jude Munro AO, said the partnership with Qantas demonstrates growing confidence in the region.
“We sincerely thank the Qantas Group for placing their trust in Newcastle Airport, its people, and our bold plans for growth… this new route from Newcastle to Perth not only supports jobs and tourism but reinforces the Hunter’s strategic importance to our state’s future.”
Port Stephens Mayor and Newcastle Airport Director, Leah Anderson, said the direct service delivers on years of local calls for better access to the west.
“It’s about time saved, convenience gained, and opportunities unlocked. For the people of Newcastle, Port Stephens, and 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.”
QantasLink CEO, Rachel Yangoyan also praised the milestone…
“QantasLink is proud to be the first airline to offer a direct air link between Newcastle and Perth. These flights will boost connectivity for Newcastle residents.”
Perth Airport’s Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer, Kate Holsgrove echoed the excitement…
“Newcastle is our largest domestic market unserved by a non-stop flight and there is significant demand between the two cities. The introduction of this new route will provide more opportunities for people to travel between Perth and Newcastle and the Hunter Valley region.”
With direct connections set to stretch west coast to east coast, the announcement marks a major step forward in making Newcastle Airport the regionally significant, nationally connected hub the Hunter deserves.
