Melbourne’s Avalon Airport might not have the city-centre cachet (and impending streamlined taxi system) of Tullamarine, but it’s carved out a niche as a stress-free gateway for Victorians living in Geelong, the Surf Coast and the Bellarine Peninsula. Since opening in 1953, Avalon has been known for its easy access, ample parking and relaxed vibe – the kind of airport where queues are short and check-in is a breeze. Now, after years of operating domestic flights only, Avalon is ready to step back into the global spotlight.
Today (Monday, November 10), Jetstar announced its biggest-ever expansion out of Avalon – and the major news is that international flights are returning for the first time since the pandemic. From March 23 next year, Bali is back on the map with five return flights a week, meaning sun-seekers from Melbourne and beyond can trade city lights for Seminyak sunsets in just over six hours. It’s Jetstar’s first-ever international route from Avalon, a milestone that signals the airport is no longer just a domestic back-up – it’s a certified launchpad to the world (well, Bali at least).
And it’s not just Australia’s most beloved overseas island destination that’s getting the love. Flights from Avalon to Adelaide will re-start on March 26, with up to seven return services every week, and extra flights to Brisbane will add more than 100,000 additional seats annually.
To make life even easier, the Victorian Government is launching a new Route 18 bus connecting Avalon to Lara Station every day, complementing Skybus and MyBus options – a little nudge to make the airport even more convenient for travellers.
Want in on the action? To celebrate the new routes, Jetstar is throwing a flash sale with domestic flights from $29, and flights from Avalon to Bali for $199. You can learn more and plan your next getaway over here.
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