Jetstar launch new route that unlocks Margaret River wine region: flights from $89
Now there's even more reason to toast to the weekend, with Jetstar announcing new direct flights between Melbourne and Busselton — the gateway city to the Margaret River region, famed for its wineries, produce and beaches.
From March 2020, travellers will be able to fly to this stunning pocket of Western Australia via the low-cost carrier, making the notoriously costly commute from the east to the west coast more affordable.
The service will run three times per week — on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Jetstar
To celebrate the announcement, the airline have dropped a five-day launch sale with one-way fares to Busselton starting from $89 — meaning savvy travellers can nab tickets to WA for under 90 bucks.
But lead-in flights will still be obscenely affordable, starting from $139.
Alan McIntyre, Jetstar's executive manager for commercial planning, described the new service as "game changing", particularly for the short-breaks market.
"You cut out that three-plus hour journey from Perth, go straight into this region — and it just opens up the region," he tells 9Honey.
"When you're only there for 48 hours or so, a six hour drive [commute to and from Perth] is a big thing."
The exec says the route could also pave the way for direct Busselton flights from other Aussie cities.
"I think it's game-changing for Melbournites and maybe, if this goes well, other destinations as well."
Jetstar will be the first low-cost commercial carrier to add Busselton to their flight network.
Visitors can experience the beauty of Busselton Jetty, as well as the famous wine region. iStock
The service departs Melbourne's Tullamarine airport, arrives in Busselton Margaret River Airport in under five hours.
Margaret River is home to over 200 wine producers and 100 cellar doors — and you don't have to stray far for a top drop, with Margs behind 20 per cent of the country's premium wines.
Margaret River make 3 per cent of Australia's wine, but 20 per cent of Australia's premium drops. iStock
The Busselton five-day launch sale kicks off on Friday October 4 at 12:30 AEST until October 8 at 23:59 AEST. For more information or to book flights, visit jetstar.com
