Jetstar’s inaugural Melbourne-Phuket flight took off this afternoon marking the commencement of the first non-stop low fares services between the two destinations.

Jetstar Australia and New Zealand CEO David Hall said the airline’s newest long haul route was a great addition to the Melbourne network.

“Phuket has historically appealed to a broad group of travellers with its luxury resorts, thriving night life and close proximity to idyllic islands such as Kho Phi Phi and Kho Samui,” Mr Hall said.

“It’s no secret that travellers much prefer flying directly to their destination and that’s one of the key reasons we decided to add this new service.

“We’ve seen a great response from customers since we launched this route back in September and forward bookings remain strong.

“Once the third weekly service starts in April 2014 we’ll be offering more than 1,800 seats each week between the destinations and this is great news for all Victorian holiday makers.”

Melbourne Airport CEO Chris Woodruff said that the new service will provide more choice for Victorians.

“Phuket’s popularity as a holiday destination for Australians is well known and this new direct service will be a great addition for the busy summer holiday period.”

Jetstar’s Melbourne-Phuket services will be operated by a wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft fitted with business and economy class seating. One-way lead-in fares on the Melbourne-Phuket route start from $429*.

Jetstar took delivery of its first 787 in October this year and is receiving its second in December and third in early January 2014.

The airline will have transitioned to an all 787 long haul fleet by 2015, with the Dreamliner eventually replacing all current Jetstar Airbus A330 services, including Melbourne-Phuket.

Jetstar also offers three weekly return services to Phuket via Sydney.

* Checked baggage not included. You can choose from 15kg to 40kg checked baggage for an additional $16.50-$45.00 per passenger per fare. Sale fares not available on all flights or days and conditions apply. Prices are based on payment by direct deposit/POLi, voucher or Jetstar MasterCard/Jetstar Platinum MasterCard for bookings through jetstar.com. For all other bookings, a Booking and Service Fee of $12.50 per passenger per flight applies.