Jetstar has unveiled its latest international route, announcing it will begin direct flights from Melbourne to Colombo in August 2026 — marking the first time any Australian low-cost carrier has flown non-stop to Sri Lanka.
From 25 August, Jetstar will operate three weekly return services between Melbourne and Colombo, providing more than 100,000 low-fare seats annually on this new route. Fares start from just $315 one-way, with a 24-hour launch sale now live at jetstar.com.
New Route, New Travel Opportunities
This announcement adds Sri Lanka to Jetstar’s growing international network and gives Australians a new, budget-friendly way to explore one of South Asia’s most culturally rich and naturally beautiful destinations.
Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said the move reflects the airline’s ambitious expansion strategy and strong customer demand.
“Colombo is an incredible destination, and we’re excited to make it more accessible to Aussies. This is part of a huge growth phase for Jetstar – more destinations, more aircraft and more ways to take off for less,” she said.
Upgraded Dreamliners to Power New Service
The year-round service will be flown on Jetstar’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which are undergoing a full interior upgrade starting in early 2026. The refit includes Wi-Fi access, refreshed business and economy cabins, and a new lie-flat crew rest area that opens the door for even longer-haul routes in future.
The first of the upgraded Dreamliners is expected to arrive in Melbourne by late March 2026. Some Colombo flights will operate with the new configuration as aircraft are progressively introduced.
Record Growth for Jetstar
The announcement follows a major year of growth for Jetstar. In 2025 alone, the airline has revealed 14 new routes, nine of which are international, and welcomed 13 new aircraft into its fleet. Over the past two years, Jetstar has launched 26 new routes across its network.
This latest milestone also coincides with the 10th anniversary of Jetstar operating from Melbourne’s Terminal 4, where it has served more than 50 million passengers since 2015.
Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus welcomed the move, noting Sri Lanka’s popularity among both leisure travellers and those visiting friends and relatives.
“Jetstar’s 10th international destination from Melbourne highlights how far this partnership has come in the last decade. These new direct services to Sri Lanka make it even easier for Victorians to explore the region,” she said.
Summer Peak and Expanded International Access
Jetstar is gearing up for its busiest Christmas and summer peak yet, with nearly six million passengers expected across its domestic and international network in December and January — including a record 1.7 million travelling through Melbourne.
The new Colombo flights are set to strengthen Jetstar’s position as a major international player out of Victoria, while giving Australians new low-cost access to South Asia.
