Jetstar execs return to Bay

Jetstar representatives are returning to the Bay.

Jetstar has announced its executives will return to Hawke's Bay to make further considerations about potential new destinations.

Jetstar is also considering flight paths to Hamilton, Rotorua, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Nelson and Invercargill.

Hastings District Councillor Simon Nixon said it was a positive sign for the Bay.

"When looking at the figures I couldn't understand why they are considering Rotorua or Hamilton, being so close to Auckland. We also have better passenger numbers than Nelson or New Plymouth," he said.

"It's hard to imagine them not being very interested in Hawke's Bay as I don't think the other centres will share the same significant benefits we will. I think they will go somewhere with more than one connection, ruling out Invercargill, and somewhere that can provide a high-density route to Auckland."

Mr Nixon estimates a $50 million injection to the region if the proposed routes go ahead.

"Jetstar would bring an extra 200,000 passengers to Hawke's Bay. If half of these are tourists and are spending money here that is certainly financially justified."

Jetstar will announce its four new regional destinations in September, when fares go on sale, with the first flights in December.