International flights take off

The Sunshine Coast and Noosa are now directly connected to Asia, with Sunshine Coast Airport officially welcoming its first international service to Singapore via Bali.

The milestone flight, operated by Jetstar, departed this week with more than 200 passengers on board, marking a significant moment for the region's tourism and economic future.

The new route will operate three times a week, offering travellers from the Sunshine Coast and Noosa greater choice and convenience when heading overseas, while also opening the door for more international visitors.

Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills said the launch was a proud day for the region.

"Direct services to Bali and through to Singapore strengthens our region's accessibility and helps unlock new opportunities for tourism, trade and investment," he said.

Mr Mills said the service was the result of years of planning and investment, positioning the airport to grow alongside the Sunshine Coast and Noosa communities.

Jetstar's Head of Network Fleet Strategy and Planning Ted Knight said the new connection would make international travel significantly easier for locals.

"In the time it would usually take to drive to Brisbane, find parking and get to the boarding gate, Sunshine Coast residents will be preparing to land in Bali," he said.

The airline will offer more than 70,000 low-cost seats annually on the route, with the service also expected to deliver a major boost to inbound tourism across the Sunshine Coast and Noosa.

Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the flights would help attract more visitors and support local jobs.

"Better connections mean stronger regions, more visitors through local businesses and more jobs for Queenslanders," he said.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the new route would help showcase the region on the global stage.

"These new flights make it easier than ever for visitors to discover everything our region has to offer, from our beautiful beaches and natural landscapes to our thriving local businesses," she said.

The international service builds on existing domestic and trans-Tasman connections and reinforces the airport's role as the gateway to both the Sunshine Coast and Noosa.

With direct access now available to Bali and Singapore local operators are expecting increased visitation, injecting further momentum into the region's already booming tourism sector.