Jetstar will commence its highly anticipated flight between Melbourne and Busselton in WA's southwest on February 1, 2021.
It will be the first commercial flight that links the East Coast to the popular tourist destination in the Margaret River region.
After the original planned launch in March 2020 was postponed due to border closures, the new flights will provide more than 1,100 weekly seats on the route.
With three return flights per week, the service is expected to bring more than 60,000 visitors to the Margaret River region over the next three years, contributing more than $40 million to the WA economy in that time.
This follows the Western Australian government's announcement that its border will reopen to Victoria and New South Wales travellers from today, after being closed for eight months.
Jetstar Group chief executive Gareth Evans said after a long period of border closures, they were pleased to confirm the new start date for the route which will offer the only direct flights linking the East Coast to the Margaret River region.
"In recent weeks, we've seen firsthand the huge appetite Victorians have for travel after what has been a tough year, and we expect demand for these flights will be strong," he said.
"Margaret River is renowned for its food, natural beauty and surf beaches and offers a great variety of experiences for travellers looking to explore more of Australia in 2021.
"It's also great news for Western Australian tourism, with the new service predicted to provide a huge boost in visitor numbers at a time when local operators need it most."
City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley said the commencement of Jetstar flights from Melbourne was fantastic news.
"We're optimistic that with the tight health regimes in place, the service will be extremely popular," he said.
"It's been a long time between holidays for many Australians and I can't recommend a more beautiful destination than the South West corner of Western Australia.
"We're ready and eager to welcome inter-state travelers."
Fares are available on Jetstar.com from $149 (one way) and will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Flights depart Melbourne at 8.05am taking four hours and five minutes to reach Busselton.
Flights to Melbourne from Busselton depart at 9.45am taking three hours and 30 minutes to reach the destination.
Warren-Blackwood MLA Terry Redman said finally the region would benefit from the Busselton-Margaret River Airport.
"The timing is perfect as the school holiday crowds return to Perth and the region will be ready to welcome interstate visitors," he said.
"I congratulate the City of Busselton who have been steadfast in their belief of this project, and alongside neighbouring Shires and the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, their support, planning and confidence has brought this project to fruition.
"The icing on this project would be State Government support for an upgraded passenger terminal, however despite earlier promises and the 'Wander out Yonder campaign, the Labor Government has put aside previously allocated Royalties for Regions funds for this much needed professional gateway to the region. I believe this is short-sighted and not in the best interests of the South West."
Vasse MLA Libby Mettam said the announcement of the rescheduled inaugural flights between Busselton and Melbourne from February 1 was fantastic news for this region.
"Regional aviation has its challenges and the McGowan Labor government must now provide the support that this project deserves," she said.
