Queenstown Airport has reached a significant milestone, surpassing one million international passenger movements in a financial year for the first time. The achievement coincides with the launch of new direct services to Brisbane by Air New Zealand and Jetstar, strengthening trans-Tasman links.
The airport projects 2.8 million total passenger movements in FY26, up from 2.6 million in FY25. Chief Executive Shane O’Hare attributed the growth to sustained demand from Australian travellers, noting that the region has long been a favourite destination across the Tasman.
New Brisbane Routes and Schedules
Jetstar will operate its inaugural direct flight from Brisbane on 15 June, with services running three times weekly until the end of September. Air New Zealand follows on 22 June, offering three return flights per week until 23 October, including a morning departure from Queenstown.
These routes are expected to boost tourism, trade, and the regional economy, while also giving Queenstown residents convenient access to Queensland’s warmer winter climate. O’Hare remarked, “Direct access to Brisbane makes it easier than ever for Queenstown residents to enjoy a warm Queensland getaway.”
The airport plans to continue working with airline partners and regional tourism bodies to support sustainable growth and service expansion. International passengers now account for 35% of all movements, underscoring the importance of visitors from Australia and beyond.
For travel professionals, the increased connectivity opens opportunities for package deals and cross-selling between New Zealand’s adventure capital and Queensland’s Sunshine State. The new services complement existing trans-Tasman routes and could stimulate demand for accommodation, tours, and MICE offerings in both regions.
Queenstown Airport’s milestone reflects broader trends in trans-Tasman travel recovery and the growing appeal of secondary gateways. As airlines add capacity, agents and tour operators can leverage these links to create compelling itineraries for leisure and corporate travellers alike.
