Jetstar Japan launches operations

Jetstar Japan launched operations on 03-Jul-2012, with the launch of Tokyo Narita-Sapporo service, operated with A320 equipment. Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the new airline would "stimulate new demand by making air travel more affordable" and help to reshape domestic travel in Japan. The airline launched service five months ahead of schedule and less than 12 months after it was first announced, The carrier is a JV between Qantas Group, Japan Airlines, Mitsubishi Corporation and Century Tokyo Leasing. Jetstar Japan will initially operate domestically within Japan to Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, Fukuoka and Okinawa. Short-haul international services are expected to start during 2013 subject to regulatory approval. It has sold over 100,000 fares since sales were launched in Apr-2012. The airline has a fleet of three new A320s configured with 180 seats. It plans to expand its fleet to 24 aircraft within the first few years. Jetstar Japan joins the low fares network of Jetstar branded airlines in Singapore, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand. Jetstar Hong Kong is scheduled to launch during 2013 subject to regulatory approval. Jetstar Japan is headed by CEO Miyuki Suzuki. [more - original PR] [more - CAPA Analysis]