AUSTRALIAN airline Qantas, through its wholly owned subsidiary Jetstar Airways, is set to expand its services to the Philippines with the launch of new routes from Perth to Manila and Brisbane to Cebu starting Nov. 27, 2025.
According to a letter sent by Qantas to the International Air Services Commission (IASC) on March 20, Jetstar plans to operate both routes three times per week using Airbus A321NEO aircraft with a 232-seat configuration. The airline has requested an allocation of 696 seats per week, along with unrestricted capacity on the Philippines route.
The letter was obtained by Australia-based The Philippines Times, the longest-serving Filipino newspaper in Australia.
The airline expects the allocated capacity to be fully utilized by Feb. 8, 2026 and has indicated that the flights may also be used for joint services with Qantas or its subsidiaries.
This expansion marks a significant step in boosting air connectivity between Australia and the Philippines, and strengthening travel and trade links between the two nations. The move comes amid growing demand for international travel and increased interest in Cebu as a key tourist and business destination in Southeast Asia.
The IASC is expected to review the application under the ‘reasonable capability criterion’ of the Minister’s Policy Statement before making a final determination.
Jetstar’s entry into these new routes is anticipated to enhance competition in the aviation sector and provide travelers with more affordable flight options between Australia and the Philippines. (KOC)