Jetstar announces first ever Brisbane to Rarotonga flights with launch fares from just $249^ one-way
- Written by: The Times
Jetstar will start operating direct flights between Brisbane and Rarotonga, the stunning capital island of the Cook Islands, in May 2026, with launch sale fares available today from just $249^ one-way.
The new service will operate three times a week, offering Queenslanders a low-cost, non-stop connection to one of the South Pacific’s most popular and picturesque island escapes.
The route will provide more than 50,000 seats to and from Rarotonga each year. Flights will be operated on Jetstar’s modern and fuel-efficient A321neo LR aircraft, part of a growing, state-of-the-art fleet.
This new service marks the airline’s second direct route from Australia to the Cook Islands, following the successful launch of direct Sydney to Rarotonga flights in June 2023. Jetstar is the only airline offering direct flights between Brisbane, Sydney and Rarotonga. 
Queensland growth
Queensland remains central to Jetstar’s growth. More than half of the airline’s domestic network is connected to the state and Jetstar continues to be Queensland’s largest international carrier.
In the past six months alone, Jetstar has launched or announced six new international routes from Queensland:
- Gold Coast to Bali (Denpasar)
- Gold Coast to Hamilton (New Zealand)
- Gold Coast to Dunedin
- Cairns to Christchurch
- Brisbane to Cebu (Philippines)
- and now Brisbane to Rarotonga.
To celebrate the new route, Jetstar is offering sale fares from just $249^ one-way from Brisbane to Rarotonga. These fares are available from midday (AEST) today during a 48-hour Route Launch Sale at jetstar.com.
Jetstar Group CEO, Stephanie Tully, said Queensland is at the heart of Jetstar’s international growth.
“We’re thrilled to be launching direct flights from Brisbane to the breathtaking island of Rarotonga, a true South Pacific gem.
“This new route builds on the incredible demand we’re seeing out of Queensland, with six international services launched or announced in just six months.
“When these flights start in May 2026, Jetstar will be providing more than 110,000 seats each year to and from the Cook Islands. We’re proud to work with our partners including the Cook Islands Government, to give more Australians the chance to experience this incredible destination.”
Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, said today’s announcement was significant for the nation. “Tourism is the backbone of the Cook Island’s economy, contributing approximately 75 per cent of the country’s GDP. The new services from Jetstar will provide a major boost to our tourism sector and the financial impact for local tourism operators and the nation will be positive.
“We are delighted that Jetstar is making this commitment to the Cook Islands, and Cook Islanders are always ready to welcome Australian visitors with open arms and warm smiles.
“The Cook Islands is the ultimate tropical island destination, renowned for some of the world’s most incredible crystal-clear waters, with Aitutaki lagoon recognised as one of the most beautiful in the world. The people of the Cook Islands, their culture and the many activities on offer are a drawcard for Australians.”
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff, said Brisbane offers Australia’s largest network of direct flights to South Pacific destinations, which is vital for supporting tourism, trade, and cultural connections.
“With the launch of Rarotonga, our 35th international destination, we’re not just adding a new route, we’re strengthening Brisbane’s position as the gateway to paradise.
“And because this newest flight is from Jetstar, Queenslanders can count on great-value tickets to one of the world’s most breathtaking island escapes.”
^Sale ends 11.59am AEST Thursday 7 August 2025, unless sold out. Prices based on payment by PayID, Jetstar voucher, Jetstar Gift Card, or bookings redeemed only in Qantas Points through jetstar.com. For other options, a Payment Fee applies. See jetstar.com/fees. One-way, excludes checked bags. Travel dates and other conditions apply. Flights subject to Government and Regulatory approval.
Flight schedule from 18 May 2026 *
|
Flight |
Frequency |
Airport |
Depart |
Airport |
Arrive |
|
JQ105 |
Mon, Thu, Sat |
BNE |
22:20 |
RAR |
08:30 |
|
JQ104 |
Mon, Thu, Sat |
RAR |
10:00 |
BNE |
12:10 |
