Flying to Melbourne is about to get even easier, with Jetstar set to boost capacity on one of Townsville Airport’s busiest routes from next month. 

Between June and October 2025, the low-cost carrier will operate an Airbus A321neo in place of the smaller A320, adding more than 4,500 extra return seats during what is Townsville Airport’s peak travel season. 

Queensland Airports Limited Chief Commercial Officer Adam Rowe said the additional capacity will help support the region’s growing travel demand. 

“Melbourne is our third busiest route from Townsville Airport, with 90% of seats booked on services between the two cities from June to October last year. This extra capacity will provide more choice and greater availability for passengers travelling on this popular route,” he said. 

Jetstar Queensland Executive Manager, Customer, Jenn Armor said the airline was excited to be growing its low fares network to and from Townsville.  

 “We know Melburnians love to holiday up north during winter and we expect these extra seats to be really popular with customers looking fora winter escape,” Ms Armor said.    

 “It will also mean more Townsville residents get to experience the benefits of flying on our brand new A321LRs, which are more comfortable, quieter and fuel efficient.” 

Townsville Enterprise Limited CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith welcomed the news. 

"We absolutely welcome the news that Jetstar has recognised the need for additional carrying capacity between Melbourne and Townsville, and are very excited to see these larger aircrafts in our city come June.  

 "It is perfect timing based on our peak tourist season and also that our region is still recovering post-floods, so these additional seats will definitely help a lot of those embattled tourism operators who have collectively sustained booking losses worth more than $40 million in recent months.  

 "Townsville and broader North Queensland is one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in Australia, so it is very exciting to see airlines like Jetstar stepping up to meet our growing demand."