If you’ve booked a trip through this popular budget airline or are planning a jaunt through Singapore, you might want to check your inbox—and your travel insurance.
For many Australian travellers, especially those who love a bargain fare to Asia, this news is more than just a blip on the radar.
The Qantas Group has just announced that Jetstar Asia, its Singapore-based low-cost carrier, will be shutting down operations for good, with the last flights taking off on 31 July 2025.
So, what does this mean for your travel plans, and what should you do if you’re affected? Let’s break it down.
Why is Jetstar Asia closing?
Jetstar Asia has been a familiar name in the skies for over two decades, offering affordable flights across Asia from its hub at Singapore’s Changi Airport.
But the airline has faced mounting challenges in recent years. Qantas Group chief executive Vanessa Hudson cited a dramatic increase in supplier costs—some rising by as much as 200 per cent—which has fundamentally changed the airline’s cost base.
Combine that with fierce competition from other low-cost carriers in the region, and the writing was on the wall.
Despite the closure, Ms Hudson was quick to praise the Jetstar Asia team for their dedication to low fares, operational excellence, and customer service.
But, as we all know, even the best teams can’t always overcome the harsh realities of the aviation industry.
What happens to your Jetstar Asia booking?
If you’ve already booked a flight with Jetstar Asia, don’t panic just yet. The airline will continue to operate for the next seven weeks, with the final curtain call on 31 July. Here’s what you need to know:
Full refunds: If your flight is cancelled due to the closure, you’ll be offered a full refund.
Alternative flights: The company is working to find alternative flights for affected customers.
If you’re travelling between Singapore and Bali, Manila, or Osaka, or have a connection to or from Australia, you may be offered a seat on another Qantas Group flight, subject to availability.
Communication: Jetstar Asia will contact customers directly via the email address used for booking. If you booked through a travel agent or another airline, you’ll need to contact them for your options.
Where did Jetstar Asia fly?
Jetstar Asia’s network was impressive, serving 17 international destinations across nine countries, plus one domestic route.
From Singapore, you could hop to China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and even Broome in Western Australia.
The closure will primarily affect these intra-Asia routes operated from Singapore.
Will Jetstar still fly to Asia?
Here’s some good news: Jetstar’s other operations aren’t going anywhere.
Jetstar Airways (JQ) and Jetstar Japan (GK) will continue to fly from Australia into Asia, including popular destinations like Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea.
So, if you’re flying on a Jetstar flight with a JQ or GK code, your plans should remain unaffected.
What should you do now?
Check your booking: If you’re unsure which Jetstar entity you’re flying with, check your booking reference or contact Jetstar directly.
Monitor your email: Keep an eye on your inbox for updates from Jetstar Asia.
Contact your travel agent: If you booked through a third party, reach out to them for the latest information and rebooking options.
Review your travel insurance: If you’re out of pocket due to the closure, see if your travel insurance covers airline insolvency or cancellations.
A changing landscape for budget travel
The closure of Jetstar Asia is a reminder of how quickly the travel landscape can shift. For many Australians, especially those who love exploring Asia on a budget, it’s a loss.
But with other Jetstar and Qantas flights still operating, and plenty of other low-cost carriers in the region, your Asian adventures aren’t over yet.
Have you been affected by Jetstar Asia’s closure? Are you worried about your upcoming travel plans, or have you found a good alternative? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below—your story could help a fellow traveller!
Also read: Jetstar passengers baffled by mysterious cabin mist—’never seen it that bad’
