A popular seasonal flight route out of Newcastle has been extended, with travellers able to take off a month earlier.
Newcastle Airport and airline Jetstar have revealed direct flights to Hobart in Tasmania will begin from October 27 this year.
That means the seasonal service is returning more than a month earlier than in its debut year.
The move will give the route a boost of 6000 seats, marking a 27 per cent increase on its "immensely popular" first season, which took off in December.
There will be 28,000 seats offered for passengers on the direct Newcastle and Hobart service between October 27 and April 24.
The Jetstar Airbus A320 will carry travellers on the route three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, providing direct access in both directions throughout the busy summer travel period.
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said this expanded season was a vote of confidence for the route and the Hunter market.
"This route made history was when it launched in December 2025 as the only direct air-flight service between Hobart and Newcastle, generating new inbound travel into the Hunter while giving locals direct access to another much-loved destination in Australia," he said.
The season covers the build-up to Christmas, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race and the Easter school holidays.
"We are a gateway in both directions, meaning it is easier for locals to explore further afield, whilst we attract visitors to our fantastic region," Mr Horton said.
Hobart Airport chief executive Norris Carter welcomed the move and said Newcastle travellers could experience Tasmania during some of the most popular times of the year.
NSW jobs and tourism minister Steve Kamper said the increased capacity was a boost for the Hunter.
"Direct air links also make it easier for people to explore more of NSW and experience the many great destinations our regions have to offer," he said.
Jetstar executive manager of commercial planning Scott Zeglin said the extension came because of the popularity of the route.
"These flights give Hunter residents direct access to Tasmania's incredible landscapes and experiences and Tasmanians an affordable connection to the beautiful coastline around Newcastle and the Hunter Valley," he said.
Flight schedule from October 27 to April 24:
