Jetstar ups flights between Sydney and the Cook Islands

Muri Lagoon at sunrise from an aerial or birds eye view in Rarotonga the main island in the Cook Islands

Travellers to the Cook Islands will be the winners from today’s announcement that Jetstar is adding a fourth weekly non-stop flight between Sydney and Rarotonga from Wednesday 27 March 2024.

The non-stop service already operates three times a week on a Tuesday, Thursday (moving to a Friday from 3 Nov.) and Sunday. The new direct service will be on a Wednesday. Jetstar’s new Airbus A321neoLR aircraft operates the route, departing Sydney at 9.30pm, arriving in Rarotonga at 7.00am the same day. The return flights leave Rarotonga at 9.00am arriving in Sydney at 12.30pm the following day.

Speaking on the additional capacity, Graeme West, general manager Australasia Cook Islands Tourism, said this news is testament to the strong demand of Australians wanting to holiday in the Cook Islands.

Jetstar’s new Airbus A321neoLR aircraft

“We are delighted that Jetstar is increasing the number of flights, making it more convenient for Australians to visit,” he said.

Located halfway between Australia and Hawaii, the flight time to the Cook Islands is approx. 5.5 hours non-stop. Made up of 15 islands, Rarotonga and Aitutaki are the most visited destinations, where guests can experience the most beautiful lagoons in the world, while immersing themselves in local culture, cuisine and adventure.

Jenn Armor, Jetstar’s executive manager, customer said the popularity of the route had exceeded expectations.

“We’ve already carried more than 8,000 customers between Australia and the Cook Islands since we launched four months ago,” Armor said.

“Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, is utterly breathtaking. Every week more and more Australians are falling in love with its white sand beaches, sparkling blue waters, warm weather and friendly locals.

“We thank the Cook Islands Government for its ongoing support of the route.”

West added: “This is a further step towards re-building our economy. We are a laid back, easy destination for Australian visitors, and more non-stop flights from Sydney makes it even easier.’’

(Featured Image: Muri Lagoon at Rarotonga, the main island in the Cook Islands – iStock/DarrenTierney)

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