Jetstar Asia, the Singapore-based low-cost carrier, is aiming to go long-haul late this year, with services to Australia, North Asia and Europe.
Its sister airline Jetstar in Australia already flies from Australia (Sydney, Melbourne and Cairns) to Bali, Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, Phuket and Honolulu.
Jetstar CEO Bruce Buchanan revealed that the airline was in discussion with several airports to finalise arrangements. Australian newspaper The Age quoted Buchanan as saying the first European destinations would likely be Rome and Athen due to "a combination of market opportunities and capabilities of the A330 aircraft".
London was being served "quite extensively" by Jetstar's mother company Qantas, he said.
Two new Airbus A330-200 aircraft, accommodating 303 passengers, will be used on future routes.
Jetstar Asia joins AirAsiaX, the long-haul arm of rival AirAsia, in extending its services. AirAsia X recently enhanced its inflight offerings, installing the flat beds in its Premium cabin.
For more details, visit www.jetstar.com
Margie T Logarta
