Jetstar to launch Singapore’s first long haul low fare airline
12-May-2010 Jetstar, the world’s first and leading value based long haul airline, is to operate long haul services from Singapore to Australia, North Asia and/or European destinations from late 2010.
Unveiling the latest stage in its Pan Asian network growth plans, Jetstar will operate two future A330-200 aircraft to its major Asian hub at Singapore Changi Airport.
Jetstar's existing two-class A330-200 fleet flies long haul services from Australia directly to the Asia Pacific destinations of Bali, Tokyo, Osaka, Honolulu, Bangkok and Phuket.
Jetstar's partnership in growth with Singapore Changi Airport currently supports over 400 weekly return A320 services to 21 destinations directly beyond Singapore including to Malaysia, Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Thailand and Australia.
Jetstar presently flies up to 2000 weekly flights to 57 destinations with a fleet of 61 aircraft across the Asia Pacific Region.
Jetstar Chief Executive Officer Bruce Buchanan said the announcement would employ up to 200 new aviation jobs across Jetstar's growing Pan Asian network including Pilots, Cabin Crew, Engineers and Airport Customer Service staff.
Mr Buchanan said the airline was in discussions with several airports to finalise arrangements and hoped to soon launch commercial pre-flight sales.
"Jetstar continues to grow strongly as we build our Pan-Asian presence," Mr Buchanan said.
Jetstar Asia & Valuair Chief Executive Officer Ms Chong Phit Lian said the start of wide-body services to Singapore later this year would see Jetstar recognised as the first long haul low cost airline operating into the island city state.
Mr Yam Kum Weng, Executive Vice President Changi Airport Group, said: "We are pleased that Jetstar is on track to be the first airline at Changi Airport to offer low-cost long-haul flights for passengers.
"This is an exciting development. It will give air travellers greater choice, while enhancing Singapore's connectivity and attractiveness as an air hub. Changi Airport Group will continue to work with Jetstar to support its growth at Changi," he said.