{"id":77999,"date":"2025-08-18T18:07:20","date_gmt":"2025-08-18T18:07:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/77999\/"},"modified":"2025-08-18T18:07:20","modified_gmt":"2025-08-18T18:07:20","slug":"qantas-launches-new-flights-to-tropical-aussie-islands-youve-probably-never-heard-of","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/77999\/","title":{"rendered":"Qantas launches new flights to tropical Aussie islands you’ve probably never heard of"},"content":{"rendered":"

When dreaming of a tropical destination for a weekend escape, most Aussies picture Queensland’s sun-drenched coastline or the iconic Great Barrier Reef. But closer to Bali lie several islands that are actually part of Australia; the Cocos (Keeling) Islands<\/a> and Christmas Island<\/a>.<\/p>\n

These island escapes \u2013 which boast snorkelling, diving, fishing, national parks and an abundance of wildlife \u2013 are now more accessible thanks to a new route launched by Qantas<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The airline announced twice-weekly flights from Perth to the Indian Ocean Territories, with an additional Saturday service once a month.<\/p>\n

The new routes will replace Virgin Australia\u2019s former schedule, and are expected to boost visitor numbers to the remote communities.<\/p>\n

\"Hundreds<\/p>\n

Christmas Island is famous for its annual red crab migration. Source: Getty<\/p>\n

Chair of Christmas Island<\/a> Tourism, David Watchorn, told Yahoo News that residents were excited about the announcement, as the islands rely heavily on tourism.<\/p>\n

\u201cVisitors bring energy and opportunity \u2014 creating jobs in accommodation, tours, hospitality, and retail,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cUnlike mining, which has a clear end date, tourism is renewable and sustainable, growing stronger as more people experience our extraordinary red crab migration, world-class diving, pristine nature, and vibrant culture.<\/p>\n

\u201cTourism isn\u2019t just part of the economy \u2014 it\u2019s the pathway to a stronger, more diverse future for Christmas Island.\u201d<\/p>\n

The phosphate mining industry has boosted the island\u2019s economy for over a century, but it\u2019s scheduled to end in 2034, leaving the territory more reliant on visitors than ever.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is about more than just flights,\u201d Mr Watchorn said. \u201cIt\u2019s about better connections for residents, better access to essential services, and putting the Indian Ocean Territories firmly on the map as a destination.\u201d<\/p>\n

While the new Qantas schedule won\u2019t start until November 3, visitors are able to start booking flights from today, August 18.<\/p>\n

Flights will depart from Perth\u2019s international airport, and fares will include complimentary food and a 30kg baggage allowance.<\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

This map shows just how far the islands are from Australia, though they are still Australian territories. Source: Google Maps<\/p>\n

New flight route open between Cairns and Hamilton Island<\/p>\n

Another Aussie island escape is also welcoming the announcement of a new flight route, with Queensland-based East Air planning on operating a direct flight from Cairns to Hamilton Island.<\/p>\n

The service will also begin on November 3, and offer three flights a week to begin with, with the possibility of expanding if demand allows.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is an ideal opportunity for holidaymakers to maximise their time in Queensland and experience both of these exceptional destinations without additional costly and unnecessary travel and transfers,\u201d East Air CEO Alan Milne said.<\/p>\n

It will be the first time the route has opened since pre-Covid times.<\/p>\n

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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