Melburnians can now enjoy direct flights to Western Australia’s Margaret River Region, with the long-awaited first commercial flight taking off today with a full load of passengers on board.

The launch of the direct flights comes after a two-year delay due to COVID border restrictions and marks the first time a commercial airline has ever linked the east coast with Busselton Margaret River Airport - the gateway to one of Western Australia’s most sought-after tourism regions.

The three-per-week service will be operated by an Airbus A320 aircraft, carrying up to 50,000 travellers between Busselton and Melbourne each year.

Jetstar has sale fares available from 12 noon (AEST) at jetstar.com from $89^ one way until midnight (AEST) tonight, unless sold out prior.

Jetstar Group CEO, Gareth Evans, said it was great to finally launch the much-anticipated route. 

“We are excited to launch our direct flights between Melbourne and Busselton with these services proving to be very popular with Melburnians keen to explore everything the Margaret River region has to offer.

“Whether it’s enjoying the winery regions in the winter or making the most of the surf in the summer, our low fares to Margaret River have huge appeal for travellers.

“We continue to see strong demand for domestic travel and for our new Busselton service, with our customers telling us they’re keen to explore places they’ve never been to before.

“This is the 22^nd domestic destination in our network, and we’re pleased to help more people travel for less, boost local jobs and support the economies of the communities we fly to.”

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"WA is open to tourists. We’re welcoming back visitors, including now directly via this new direct passage between the East Coast of Australia and the South-West of Western Australia.

“The landing of the first Jetstar flight in Busselton is a momentous day for the city, the Margaret River Region and the entire South-West. We can expect the South-West to be even more attractive as a holiday destination.”

Comments attributed to Federal Member for the local seat of Forrest, Hon. Nola Marino:

“This is a great day for the Busselton-Margaret River region and the South-West with the first of our long-awaited Jetstar flights landing today, with many more to come.

“Welcome to everyone on the flight – we know you’ll have a fantastic experience here with us!”

Comments attributed to City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley:

“The South-West region is ready to welcome visitors direct from the Eastern States to this beautiful part of the world and our community is equally excited to experience the direct flights and all that Melbourne has to offer too!

Thankfully, Jetstar had the tenacity and commitment to this new route. The City is absolutely delighted that today’s inaugural flights are now a reality and we are very excited for what’s to come.”

Three-weekly services between Melbourne (Tullamarine) and Busselton Margaret River will operate as follows: