Jetstar Airways launched its direct Perth-Manila service on Nov. 28, at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, further strengthening air connectivity between the Philippines and Australia.
The inaugural six-hour, 35-minute flight carried 169 passengers. The low-cost airline with a capacity of 232 seats will operate the Perth-Manila route three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Flight JQ80 departs Manila at 5:35 a.m. and arrives in Perth at 1 p.m., while JQ81 leaves Perth at 9:10 p.m. and lands in Manila at 4:15 a.m.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed the new service, saying it would help strengthen tourism, business and cultural linkages with Australia.
“This flight represents more than just travel; it symbolizes our commitment to offering opportunities for tourism and business, making it easier for travelers to fly to Manila and further connect the Philippines to the world,” she said.
A second development in Philippine-Australia connectivity will follow with the launch of Cebu’s first direct link to Brisbane. The seasonal route opens on Dec. 3 and will run until May 16, 2026, operating three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
“The Philippines is so much more than a destination measured by tourist arrivals. It is an enriching, immersive and sustaining experience. Through air connectivity, we further expand opportunities for our people and enhance the country’s competitive edge on the global tourism stage,” Frasco said, noting that improved access aligns with the government’s tourism strategy.
Australia remains a key source market for Philippine tourism, ranking fifth among inbound visitors. As of March 2025, 271,207 Australians arrived via air, accounting for about 5 percent of total visitors.
Department of Tourism (DOT) data show that 66 percent traveled for vacation, while 58 percent purchased Filipino delicacies during their stay. Top destinations include Cebu, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, Puerto Princesa and Boracay.
The DOT said 15 new international direct flights have opened in the Philippines this year as part of efforts to expand both primary and secondary gateways under the National Tourism Development Plan.
