Adelaide, Australia — Jetstar is set to significantly expand its footprint in South Australia this fall, announcing a major increase in flights from Adelaide that will add more than 350,000 low-fare seats to its domestic network each year.
The new schedule, which takes effect October 26, 2025, will see up to 13 additional weekly flights across three of Jetstar’s busiest routes — Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. The move represents a 19% jump in domestic capacity compared to the prior year and signals a strong commitment to strengthening Adelaide’s role in the nation’s aviation network.
More Seats, More Options
Under the expansion, Jetstar will add five new weekly services between Adelaide and Melbourne, bringing the total to 40. The Adelaide–Brisbane corridor will grow from 10 to 14 weekly flights, offering passengers double-daily service on some days. Flights to Perth will climb from seven to 11 per week.
For travelers, the change means more flexibility and affordability, whether for quick city getaways, family vacations, or business trips. For South Australia’s tourism sector, the announcement is expected to bring more visitors to Adelaide and the state’s regional attractions.
“We’re thrilled to offer more flights from Adelaide, providing travellers with even more low-fare options to Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth,” said Jenn Armor, Jetstar’s Executive Manager, Customer. “This capacity boost adds over 350,000 seats to our domestic network, benefiting South Australians and encouraging more travel.”
Supporting Adelaide’s Growth
To deliver on the expanded schedule, Jetstar will base an additional Airbus A320ceo at Adelaide Airport, increasing its local fleet to six aircraft. The investment will not only enhance reliability and availability but also bring direct economic benefits through job creation in crewing, ground handling, and maintenance.
Industry observers say the move reflects growing confidence in Adelaide as a hub for both leisure and business travel. The city has seen steady increases in passenger numbers in recent years, driven by tourism campaigns, population growth, and the return of post-pandemic demand.
“These extra flights and increased capacity offer more choices on popular routes,” said Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox. “Double daily flights to Brisbane and additional services to Melbourne and Perth are a big win for our customers. We’re grateful to Jetstar for basing another aircraft here, a significant investment that supports jobs and growth.”
Competitive Pressures and Market Context
The announcement comes at a time when airlines across Australia are competing aggressively on pricing and service frequency. Low-cost carriers such as Jetstar are leveraging fleet efficiencies and demand surges to expand offerings, particularly on high-volume domestic routes.
For Adelaide, the expansion underscores its strategic importance in the national network. While Sydney and Melbourne remain dominant, South Australia’s capital has carved out a role as a mid-sized hub with growing appeal to airlines seeking to diversify capacity.
The increased flights may also put pressure on competitors serving the same corridors, particularly full-service carriers that already face challenges matching Jetstar’s low-cost model. Industry analysts note that frequency and price are key factors for consumers, especially on shorter domestic routes where loyalty programs and onboard services play a lesser role.
Boost to Tourism and Local Economy
Beyond airline competition, the benefits to South Australia’s broader economy could be significant. More frequent services make it easier for interstate visitors to access Adelaide’s tourism offerings — from wine country in the Barossa Valley to the beaches of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Business travel is also expected to see gains, as firms in South Australia enjoy more direct and affordable connections to key markets.
Local jobs are another part of the equation. By stationing a sixth aircraft in Adelaide, Jetstar adds direct employment in aviation operations and indirect opportunities in supporting industries. This follows a broader trend of airlines increasingly embedding resources in regional hubs to meet demand and improve operational resilience.
Looking Ahead
Jetstar’s move comes as the airline continues to refine its domestic strategy, focusing on efficiency, volume, and affordability. The expansion may also serve as a springboard for further growth in Adelaide, as the city strengthens its reputation as a gateway to South Australia.
For travelers, the practical outcome is clear: more seats, lower fares, and greater convenience when flying east or west from Adelaide. As Armor put it, the capacity boost “benefits South Australians and encourages more travel.”
With new flights taking off in late October, South Australians will soon have more options than ever before to connect with the nation’s largest cities — and visitors from across Australia will find it easier to experience Adelaide’s attractions.
