Qantas's inaugural Darwin-Singapore service jets off today, marking the launch of the Northern Territory's newest international flight route.
Adding more than 70,000 seats between Darwin and Singapore, it will provide a one-stop option to Asia and Europe, making it the fastest way for Territorians to travel to London.
The direct route will make it easier for international travellers to visit Darwin, saving hours of travel time by no longer having to fly through other Australian capital cities.
The new service will operate four times per week with Qantas' fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
It is timed to connect with Qantas' A380 services between Singapore and London, as well as other destinations across Europe or Asia with partner airlines.
Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill, who will be aboard the flight, said: "This is a significant milestone for Darwin and a fantastic day for Territorians looking for more aviation choice, competition and connectivity."
"The new flights will benefit locals wanting to travel overseas and also connect our ever-growing cohort of business travellers with international markets," she said.
"Qantas' commitment to the Territory reinforces our profile as a thriving global city and we'll continue our partnership with them to grow demand to and from the Territory."
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby said: "With these additional flight routes, we are making the Northern Territory a gateway not just to Australia, but to the rest of the world."
"Expanding our connectivity will boost our tourism sector, increase travel options for Territorians and open more job opportunities," she said.
"As we continue our commitment to reducing crime, rebuilding our economy, and restoring our lifestyle this will encourage airlines to continue scheduling more flights to the Territory.
"We promised Territorians that 2025 will be a year of action, certainty and security."
Qantas CEO International, Cam Wallace said," We're delighted to be offering Territorians another international connection and providing a faster and more seamless way to travel with Qantas to Asia and Europe. The new flights will provide more travel options both for locals and international tourists and will also strengthen the important trade and business links between Australia and Singapore."
"By adding over 70,000 new seats to the Singapore mega hub, this new route will open up more options for international visitors to make Darwin the first stop on their Australian itinerary."
"2025 is a year of growth for Qantas and Jetstar in the NT, with over 180,000 extra seats and two new routes including Singapore with Qantas and the Gold Coast with Jetstar later this year."
Rob Porter, Executive General Manager - Airports, Airport Development Group (ADG) said: "The launch of Qantas' Darwin-Singapore service is a significant milestone for the Northern Territory, strengthening our global connectivity and making it easier for Territorians to access Asia and beyond."
"This new route is a testament to the Territory's growing importance as a gateway to the region, unlocking new opportunities for business, tourism, and trade," he said.
"ADG remains committed to working with our airline partners to open up Northern Australia, creating more travel options and delivering economic benefits for our community."
The launch coincides with the Flying Kangaroo's latest international sale, with discounted return fares available from Darwin to Singapore starting at $519 in Economy and available until 11:59pm Wednesday 2 April 2025.
