Jetstar finalizes long-haul plans
by admin , June 9, 2010, 1830hrs SINGAPORE (June 9, 2010) - Jetstar will kick off its long haul flights with its planes flying between Singapore and Melbourne in December; and then, between Singapore and Auckland in March.
Releasing details of its plan to challenge the long haul carriers, which was first announced last month, Jetstar CEO Bruce Buchanan said other destinations being considered include Rome, Athens and North Asian cities such as Beijing.
The Melbourne-based airline is using Singapore as a springboard into Asia Pacific, where economic growth is fueling demand for air travel. Jetstar is also speeding expansion through a tie-up with Air France-KLM Group that will allow it to plug into the flight network of Europe’s largest carrier.
Mr Buchanan said: “Connecting our three largest operations in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore strengthens each of these businesses and builds a solid foundation for future growth beyond Singapore to North Asia and Europe.”
Analysts expect budget airlines to control 25 per cent of the region’s travel market in 10 years, from 15.5 percent last year.
To expand, Jetstar plans to take delivery of 25 Boeing Co. 787 Dreamliners from 2014, and another 50 single-aisle planes over the next four years, according to Buchanan. The airline operates a fleet of 65 Airbus and Boeing planes.
