Christchurch has gained a new direct connection to Western Australia, with Jetstar launching seasonal flights to Perth three times a week.

The service, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, will add more than 37,000 seats between the two cities over summer.

The first flight from Perth is scheduled to arrive at Christchurch Airport this evening, opening another gateway for Australian tourists travelling to Canterbury and the wider South Island.

Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson said the new route would benefit communities beyond Christchurch.

“More than 37,000 additional seats over summer is great news for our tourism industry, particularly for the regional communities and businesses that benefit when visitors choose Christchurch and explore further afield.

“We’ve worked closely with Jetstar to grow its network from Christchurch, and it’s fantastic to see that partnership delivering another international connection.”

Western Australia offers South Island travellers access to destinations including Fremantle, Margaret River and Rottnest Island.

The new service follows Jetstar’s resumption of direct flights between Christchurch and Sydney on Monday.

Jetstar Head of New Zealand Commercial Cath O’Brien said the expansion would make international travel more accessible.

“We’re also expecting more Aussies to make the trip across the ditch, whether it’s for a summer hike, a road trip through the Southern Alps or a few days exploring Christchurch, bringing more visitors to the region.”

The Perth route will be operated by an Airbus A321LR aircraft, with flights departing Christchurch at 8.55pm and arriving in Perth at 11.10pm local time.

Return flights leave Perth at 7.45am and arrive in Christchurch at 6.55pm.

Passengers will also have access to onward Qantas Group connections to international destinations including Bali, London, Paris, Johannesburg, Delhi and Rome.

Air New Zealand is scheduled to introduce its own direct Christchurch to Perth service at the end of November, providing competition on the route during the summer travel season.