Jetstar’s New Direct Routes to the Philippines Signal a New Era for Aussie Travellers – For Urban Women

Jetstar expands into the Philippines with two new direct routes from Brisbane and Perth, with flights available from $188

In a move that’s equal parts strategic and spirited, Jetstar Airways has announced two new direct international routes from Australia to the Philippines—Brisbane to Cebu and Perth to Manila—set to launch in late 2025.

For budget-conscious travellers, diaspora communities, and tropical dreamers alike, this expansion is more than a flight path—it’s a cultural bridge, a tourism catalyst, and a vote of confidence in Southeast Asia’s enduring allure.

A Strategic Expansion with Heart

Jetstar’s new routes are not just about geography—they’re about vision. From 27 November 2025, Perth will enjoy year-round direct flights to Manila, while Brisbane will connect seasonally to Cebu starting 3 December 2025. These services will operate three times a week using Jetstar’s next-generation Airbus A321LR aircraft, known for their fuel efficiency and quieter cabins.

Together, the routes will add over 108,000 low-fare seats annually, opening up fresh travel opportunities for Australians seeking sun, culture, and connection. It’s a bold move that reflects Jetstar’s broader Asia-Pacific ambitions, with the airline launching or announcing 20 new domestic and international routes since June 2024.

Image by Tirachard Kumtanom/pexels.com

Cebu, a tropical gateway in the south

For Queenslanders, the new Brisbane–Cebu route is a game-changer. Cebu, the Philippines’ second-largest city, is a gateway to some of the country’s most iconic destinations—Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, Moalboal’s coral reefs, and the heritage town of Carcar. With its Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant street food scene, and island-hopping adventures, Cebu offers a rich tapestry of experiences that go far beyond the beach.

Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff captured the sentiment perfectly: “Cebu will deliver in spades with gorgeous islands and people, rich Spanish colonial history, and vibrant street food culture—it is a tropical getaway waiting to be discovered”.

This route also strengthens ties with Queensland’s large Filipino community, making it easier for families to reconnect and for businesses to build cross-cultural bridges.

Image by Kenneth Surillo/pexels.com

Manila – the capital of contrasts

Meanwhile, Perth’s new direct link to Manila offers Western Australians a gateway to one of Asia’s most dynamic capitals. Manila is a city of contrasts—historic Intramuros meets gleaming skyscrapers, jeepneys weave past luxury malls, and street food stalls coexist with Michelin-worthy dining.

For travellers, Manila is more than a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right. From the National Museum of Fine Arts to the bustling markets of Quiapo, the city pulses with energy, resilience, and creativity. And for those venturing further, Manila is the launchpad to Luzon’s rice terraces, Palawan’s limestone cliffs, and the surf breaks of Siargao.

Low-Cost, High Impact

Jetstar’s expansion is underpinned by a clear value proposition: affordable international travel. To celebrate the launch, the airline is offering sale fares starting from $188 one-way from Brisbane to Cebu and $199 one-wayfrom Perth to Manila. These prices are a breath of fresh air in a market where international travel often feels out of reach for many.

Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully emphasised the airline’s mission: “As demand for low-cost international travel continues to grow, our pipeline of new aircraft is helping us deliver even more low fares to new destinations—so our customers can take off more, for less”.

Image by Catarina Sousa/pexels.com

Diaspora and Cultural Connection

Beyond tourism, these routes carry emotional weight. Australia is home to over 360,000 Filipino-born residents, making Filipinos the fifth-largest migrant community in the country. For many, these flights are not just about holidays—they’re about homecomings, reunions, and maintaining ties across oceans.

The Brisbane–Cebu route, in particular, is the first direct link between Australia and Cebu, bypassing the need to transit through Manila. It’s a logistical win and a symbolic one, recognising Cebu’s growing importance as a cultural and economic hub.

What It Means for Travellers

For Aussie travellers, this expansion means more choice, more convenience, and more adventure. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Cebu, exploring Manila’s art scene, or simply visiting family, Jetstar’s new routes make it easier—and cheaper—to get there.

The flight schedules are designed with comfort in mind:

Brisbane to Cebu: Departs at 12:30 PM, arrives at 5:15 PM

Perth to Manila: Departs at 9:10 PM, arrives at 4:15 AM

Return flights are equally well-timed, allowing for seamless travel and minimal jet lag.

Jetstar’s expansion into the Philippines is more than a business move—it’s a cultural and economic statement. It reflects a growing appetite for affordable, meaningful travel and a recognition of the Philippines as a rising star in the Asia-Pacific tourism landscape.

For travellers, it’s an invitation to explore new horizons. For Filipino-Australians, it’s a bridge home. And for Jetstar, it’s a confident stride into a future where low-cost doesn’t mean low-impact.

So whether you’re packing for a beach escape or a family reunion, one thing’s clear: the Philippines just got a whole lot closer.