Qantas will resume flights between Newcastle and Melbourne next year for the first time in more than a decade.
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From February 1, the national carrier will begin flying 12 return services per week including early morning flights from both airports.
"In recent weeks we've seen new services to destinations such as Canberra, Lord Howe Island and the Sunshine Coast. We now have Qantas flying to Melbourne at the start and end of the day," Newcastle Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock said on Friday.
"Those times will suit all types of travellers and enable business passengers to do a day's work in Melbourne and be home in time for dinner."
"This service also enhances the ability to catch connecting flights within the Qantas network, from Melbourne to destinations such as Adelaide, Perth or Darwin and check your bags through to the final destination."
On weekdays, flights leave Newcastle at 7am and 4.50pm, and Tullamarine Airport at 7.05am and 7.10pm. Only the earlier flights will run on Saturdays, and the later on Sundays.
A lead-in economy fare for the 90-minute flight starts from $159 one way or 8000 Qantas points.
"We know there is significant pent-up demand for travel with Australians inspired to plan their next holiday in their own backyard with international borders closed," QantasLink CEO John Gissing said.
"We expect this service will also be popular with our corporate travellers with a schedule offering flights at peak times in both directions."
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