19-Aug-2009 1:00 PM

Jetstar’s strengthened Singapore hub provides platform for Pan Asian growth

Direct News Source

Low fares airline Jetstar has reasserted its commitment to future Pan Asian growth, with the airline expected to grow its capacity from Singapore by 46 per cent in the next year, supported by an investment of an additional three A320 aircraft to be based in its rapidly expanding Singapore hub.

Jetstar Asia and Valuair CEO Chong Phit Lian said the airline had announced one of its biggest single growth spurts since commencing services from Singapore in 2004.

"In the coming 12 months, Jetstar plans to increase its existing capacity from Singapore by 46 per cent, supported by the arrival of three additional A320 aircraft to our fleet based in our rapidly expanding Singapore hub," Ms Chong said.

"We look forward to continuing this trend of rapid growth for the benefit of consumers seeking low fares across the Southeast Asia region."

Jetstar Chief Executive Officer Bruce Buchanan said the Qantas Group's new shareholder structure for Singapore-based Jetstar Asia had built a strong platform for future growth for Jetstar as a brand across multiple markets in Asia, the world's largest potential aviation market.

"As we indicated in April, Jetstar is fulfilling its plans to grow its pan Asian network in order to offer low fares to more places across the region, delivering a more seamless passenger experience and better opportunities for travellers flying to, from or through Singapore," Mr Buchanan said

Jetstar's strong financial foundations will support the airline's growth, with the alignment of Jetstar's Australian and Singapore operations resulting in operating synergies of S$20 million per annum.

The value based carrier is now participating in Jetstar's existing narrow body fleet order comprising up to 68 A320 and A321 aircraft. It was confirmed today for the 2010 financial year that it will accept nine new A320s that will be utilized and considered for new routes or further expansion.

Jetstar Australia operated 37 A320 family (A320 and A321 aircraft) and six A330-200s as at 30 June 2009 with an existing seven A320s within the Jetstar Asia / Valuair operations based in Singapore.

"In revenue terms Jetstar has become the largest low cost carrier in Asia and continues to remain one of its most profitable with a sustainable future," Mr Buchanan said.

"Today's fleet announcement by the Qantas Group for Jetstar provides even stronger foundations to support our Pan Asian growth plans, in particular out of Singapore.

"Jetstar's commitment to growth is also matched by future opportunities we believe are available in both the Australian and New Zealand markets on both domestic markets and out of our innovative international flying hubs in Darwin and Perth," Mr Buchanan said.