Jetstar Asia receives first A320 as part of fleet rejuvenation programme

Jetstar Asia received (17-Oct-2012) the first of six new A320s as part of a fleet rejuvenation programme. Five of the brand new aircraft will replace older A320s in the Jetstar Asia fleet. An additional aircraft will see the overall fleet grow to 17 A320s, representing a net increase of one. Combined, the six new aircraft have an approximate value of USD530 million at Jun-2012 list prices. Upon full delivery of all six aircraft by February 2013, Jetstar Asia's fleet of A320s will have an average age of just three years. Jetstar Asia CEO Barathan Pasupathi said operating a modern fleet was essential for the airline to continue into its next phase of growth. "Maintaining a young fleet of A320s translates to significant cost savings, and operational improvements, thereby allowing us to offer a superior travel experience at consistently low fares," he said. One of the new A320 aircraft will be fitted with Airbus 'Sharklets'. Jetstar Asia expects to be the first Singapore-based airline, and also the first in the Jetstar Group, to operate A320s with the Sharklet wingtips.The six leased aircraft are taken from the existing Qantas Group fleet procurement arrangements for A320s, announced in Aug-2011. Other Jetstar airlines are also on track to receive new A320s fitted with Sharklets in 2013. [more - original PR]