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Jetstar launched its inaugural Brisbane-Cebu service on Dec. 3, the Australian airline’s first route to a Philippine destination outside Manila
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The Australian Embassy welcomed the new route, citing its role in strengthening business, trade, investment, and cultural ties
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Flight JQ101 from Brisbane operates every Wednesday, Friday, Sunday with an additional flight on Saturdays from January 31 to March 28. It departs at 12:30 and arrives in Cebu at 17:15
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Flight JQ100 from Cebu returns to Brisbane on the same days, departing at 20:15
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Australia and the Philippines updated bilateral air services in September, agreeing to double passenger capacity from 35 to 70 weekly flights by Q4 2026
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Expanded traffic rights for cargo services and increased codeshare opportunities were part of the agreement
Jetstar Airways launched its direct Brisbane-Cebu service on December 3, marking the airline’s first scheduled service to a Philippine destination outside Manila.
“This is a tangible demonstration of the Australian government’s commitment to do more business with the Philippines and facilitate greater economic links,” Australian ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown said as he welcomed the new service, which he said would contribute to Cebu’s recovery from the recent typhoon that triggered widespread flooding.
Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully said the new route represents another exciting step in the airline’s growth. “As demand for international travel continues to rise, our expanding fleet is allowing us to deliver more low fares to exciting new destinations. Cebu is an amazing holiday option for our customers, with its rich history, pristine beaches and impressive food scene,” Tully said in a press release.
The Australian embassy noted the route is expected to enhance not only tourism but also trade, investment, and cultural ties between the two countries.
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said the addition of the seasonal service brings Brisbane Airport to 35 international destinations.
“We are delighted to welcome this new service to Brisbane Airport, creating a new direct link between Australia and Cebu and strengthening our connection with the Philippines just in time for the busy holiday travel period,” he said.
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From December to May, Flight JQ101 from Brisbane operates every Wednesday, Friday, Sunday with an additional flight on Saturdays from January 31 to March 28. It departs at 12:30 and arrives in Cebu at 17:15.
Flight JQ100 from Cebu returns to Brisbane on the same days, departing at 20:15.
Australia and the Philippines updated their bilateral air services arrangements in September, agreeing to double passenger capacity from 35 to 70 weekly services to major Australian cities by the fourth quarter of 2026.
The two governments also sought to expand traffic rights for dedicated cargo services and increase codeshare opportunities for airlines of both countries.
Canberra is currently working to expand trade and investment with Manila under its 2040 Southeast Asia Economic Strategy, with the Brisbane–Cebu flights seen as a step toward stronger economic integration.
