Just months after launching direct flights from Singapore to Labuan Bajo and Broome, low-cost carrier Jetstar Asia announces that it will be ceasing operations this July. The news comes as a surprise to many Singaporeans, given the airline’s long-standing presence as one of the go-to budget options, alongside others like Scoot and AirAsia.
According to the airline, the difficult decision stems from rising supplier costs, airport charges, and aviation expenses. Heightened competition in the region has also played a part in the closure.
In total, 16 routes within Asia will be impacted. Jetstar Asia’s fleet of 13 Airbus A320 aircraft will be redeployed to support operations in Australia and New Zealand instead. The Qantas Group, Jetstar Asia’s parent company, shares that affected staff will receive redundancy packages and employment support services.
So what does this mean for Jetstar Asia customers? We’ve compiled the key information below:
Bookings before the closure date
Jetstar Asia will continue operating flights and gradually reducing its flight schedules until its final day of service. Travellers with bookings before July 31 may experience changes to their itineraries, and Jetstar will directly contact those affected. If you haven’t received any updates from the airline, you can assume your flight is proceeding as planned.
Do note that this closure only affects Jetstar Asia’s intra-Asia operations based in Singapore. Jetstar Airways' domestic and international services in Australia and New Zealand, as well as Jetstar Japan, will continue operating as usual. You can identify the different carriers by their airline codes: Jetstar Airways (JQ), Jetstar Japan (GK), and Jetstar Asia (3K).
Bookings after the closure date
If your flight is scheduled for after July 31, you’ll be entitled to a full cash refund. For passengers travelling to or from Australia, or between Singapore and Bali, Manila or Osaka, you may be offered alternative arrangements via other Qantas Group carriers. Jetstar Asia will contact eligible customers directly. If your booking was made through a travel agent, you’ll need to liaise with them for further assistance.
Can I still book flights before Jetstar Asia shuts down?
Yes – flights up to July 31 remain available for booking. So if you’re looking to fly with Jetstar Asia one last time, now’s your chance.
Can I cancel my existing booking?
Jetstar Asia is offering increased flexibility for those who no longer wish to travel before the shutdown. You may be eligible for a refund or alternative arrangements – check with the airline directly for your options.
What about Jetstar vouchers?
If you hold a Jetstar voucher related to Jetstar Asia, the airline will contact you in August to convert the remaining value into a cash refund. However, vouchers that expire before June 11 will not be eligible for reimbursement.
What happens to Club Jetstar memberships?
Singapore-based Club Jetstar members will receive a full refund of their annual membership fee. Memberships will be cancelled, with refunds processed from August and credited to the original payment card. If the refund fails, Jetstar will reach out via your registered email for further instructions. Do note that memberships expiring before June 11 will not be refunded.
Here are the official statements released by Qantas Group and Jetstar Asia. Stay updated via Jetstar Asia’s website.
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