Jetstar increasing domestic flights and Melbourne, Gold Coast from Christchurch

Jetstar is adding more seats to its services from Christchurch as it adds another aircraft to its fleet of Airbus A320s based in the Garden City. As a result, from Sunday, Jetstar will fly daily to Melbourne and the Gold Coast, increasing from three and four days a week respectively until the end of January. The additional capacity will also bolster the Auckland schedule with an extra flight most days. As a result, from Sunday, Jetstar will fly daily to Melbourne and the Gold Coast, increasing from three and four days a week respectively until the end of January. The additional capacity will also bolster the Auckland schedule with an extra flight most days. Auckland to Wellington will also get more capacity. It is the first time Jetstar has expanded its fleet in New Zealand in more than 10 years. The extra plane will bring the total to three aircraft at the airport and eight in its New Zealand fleet, allowing a 35% increase in seat capacity across the Tasman and a 21% increase in seat capacity on Jetstar’s existing domestic routes. Christchurch Airport's aeronautical development general manager, Gordon Bevan said airlines make decisions based on data. "Our numbers show a strong demand for Jetstar’s services. This isn’t just a summer spike – we’re seeing sustained growth in both domestic and international interest in Christchurch as a destination and as the gateway to the South Island. Big brother Qantas is adding 21% more capacity to their Christchurch operation, too.” ChristchurchNZ’s CE Ali Adams said was not surprised to see the airport bucking the trend and increasing its capacity.<br/>