Jetstar and Ballina Byron Gateway Airport are this week marking 20 years since the first Jetstar flight touched down in Ballina.

The partnership since 2005 has helped reshape the Northern Rivers economy and connected more than five million passengers to the region.

The milestone is one of several anniversaries being celebrated by the airport in 2025. 

It’s 30 years since Ansett launched regular scheduled jet services, and 20 years since Ballina Shire Council made the strategic move to rename the airport Ballina Byron Gateway to capitalise on the region’s growing national tourism appeal.

But it was Jetstar’s arrival in 2005 that proved a game-changer.

The “every day low fare” airline introduced multiple daily return Airbus services to Sydney, with headline sale fares as low as $19 (*luggage and snacks not included)

The strategic investment by the Qantas budget start-up opened up affordable travel for residents, enabling commuting options, and supercharging the region’s sea and tree-change revolution.

Jetstar has since expanded its presence, now offering up to six return flights weekly to Melbourne during peak periods.

In total, Jetstar has operated close to 40,000 flights in and out of Ballina over the past two decades.

“Ballina Byron Gateway Airport was one of Jetstar’s very first destinations, and two decades later, it’s still one of our most loved,” Jetstar Executive Manager Jenn Armor said.

“That first flight from Sydney to Ballina marked the beginning of a long and successful partnership built on shared growth and a passion for making travel more accessible.”

Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the milestone reflects the vision and foresight of council over the past two decades.

“This is a wonderful achievement and a proud moment for our region,” Cr Cadwallader said.

“Jetstar has been a vital partner in connecting our community to key destinations across the country. 

“This enduring partnership has contributed to the growth of our local economy and helped make our region more accessible to visitors from around Australia.”

The airport is one of the region’s most important public assets and now ranks as one of the busiest regional hubs in the country. 

With continued population and air travel growth forecast, Ballina Byron Gateway is expected to handle more than one million passengers annually within the next 20 years.

Council says it remains committed to further investment in airport infrastructure, facilities and services to support tourism, business travel and community connectivity.

“This partnership with Jetstar has helped shape the identity of Ballina as a connected, accessible place to live and visit,” Cr Cadwallader said.

“We look forward to many more years of shared success.”