Jetstar drives new growth at Avalon Airport
A year after striking an historic 10-year agreement with the Andrews Government and Linfox, Jetstar has recorded double digit passenger growth through Avalon Airport.
The low fares airline has seen more than 65,000 extra travellers use the airport during the past year with the addition of Gold Coast, Hobart and Adelaide flights to the Avalon offering.
Jetstar Australia and New Zealand CEO David Hall said his team at Avalon were rapt to see flights out of Avalon so busy again.
“Avalon is such a great asset for Victoria and our local team is delighted to welcome more and more customers through the airport,” Mr Hall said.
“When we signed the agreement a year ago, we called on the Geelong community to back our new flights and to their credit they’ve certainly done that.
“In a welcome boost to local tourism and jobs, we have also seen more than 30,000 extra visitors land at Avalon Airport during the past year.
“We’re set to see even more growth in future as new travellers from Adelaide and Hobart take advantage of Avalon’s superior access to Geelong and the Great Ocean Road.”
Victorian Industry Minister Lily D’Ambrosio welcomed the growth in passenger numbers.
"By saving Avalon Airport, we saved 193 jobs at the airport and guaranteed business for around 150 local suppliers and the local residents they employ,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
"Jetstar's flights out of Avalon generate $60 million in visitor spending across the state each year, most of that in the Geelong and Surf Coast region. The flow on benefits to the local economy are enormous."
Victorian Tourism and Major Events Minister John Eren said growth at Avalon Airport has provided a welcome boost for local tourism operators and other small businesses.
“More flights in and out of Avalon Airport have allowed more visitors to experience for themselves the best of everything Geelong and the Surf Coast offers,” Mr Eren said.
“Our visitors keep our bars and restaurants busy, our hotels full and our attractions thriving – and that’s great for local jobs and the economy.”
Jetstar now offers up to 49 flights a week from Avalon Airport to Sydney, the Gold Coast, Adelaide and Hobart. The low fares airline launched flights from Avalon to Adelaide and Hobart last month.