The new flights mark a significant expansion of aviation connectivity between the two countries, the Australian Embassy in the Philippines said in a statement.
Why it matters
The direct link is expected to spur tourism, trade, and investment flows between Australia and the Philippines, strengthening people-to-people and business ties at a time of deepening bilateral cooperation, the Embassy said in the same statement.
What they're saying
“This is a tangible demonstration of the Australian Government’s commitment to do more business with the Philippines and facilitate greater economic links,” Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown said during the launch.
He added that the service arrives at a meaningful moment: “The timing of the introduction of this service will hopefully make a contribution to Cebu’s recovery from the terrible typhoon a few weeks ago.”
Zoom in
Jetstar has grown substantially since its founding in 2004, evolving from a domestic low-cost carrier into one of Asia-Pacific’s largest budget airlines with a network of more than 50 destinations.
The new Brisbane–Cebu service extends its regional footprint and targets rising leisure and business travel demand.
Between the lines
Aviation connectivity is considered a key enabler of deeper economic cooperation. The route comes amid a broader push to modernize air travel links between the two nations.
Catch up fast
Australia and the Philippines updated their bilateral air services agreement in September. The deal:
The big picture
The enhanced air connectivity aligns with Australia’s “Invested: Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040,” a long-term plan to deepen trade and investment in the region. Strengthening ties with the Philippines — one of Southeast Asia's fastest-growing economies — is a key element of that strategy. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
