With Jetstar Asia now flying to 22 destinations throughout the region, Jetstar Australia’s sister company is expanding faster than a noodle loving expats’ waistline. But is it any good?
After flying from Australia and spending a few days in Bangkok, I had the opportunity to fly to Singapore for the first time on Jetstar Asia. Here’s what I thought of the flight.
CHECK IN & PRE-BOARDING
Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok
Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok is a cooling, efficient place to start your journey and after checking in, I was quickly through security and immigration and wandering through the vast halls and retail options.
Much like Jetstar Australia, you can take 7kgs in carryon-on with your luggage allowance dependant on what ticket you’ve bought.
Economy Starter Max passengers departing on international flights with a JQ, 3K or QF code can also access the Sky Lounge (Air France) at Concourse F, on the 3rd Floor.
THE CABIN & SEAT
The Airbus A320
If you fly Jetstar Australia, you’ll notice that the cabin experience with Jetstar Asia is the same in configuration and design.
The Airbus A320 has 180 seats in a 3-3 configuration. Apart from the emergency exit Rows of 1, 12 and 13, the pitch of all other leather seats is the same at 29 inches.
I’m in 1B (the middle seat) at the very front, and the legroom situation is good given I’m 196cms tall.
ENTERTAINMENT & SERVICE
Just like Australia, there are no entertainment screens, so it’s very much a BYO scenario. There’s no wifi either so bring your own devices and relax. This is a short flight, so it wasn’t an issue for me.
The English speaking young crew were friendly and efficient and kept busy throughout the flight.
You can purchase reasonably priced food and beverages on board from the sizeable Jetstar Café menu, but it’s best to order in advance when you book your ticket if you think you’ll be hungry.
Menus vary depending on flight length, and destination and on all Jetstar Asia flights, both cash and credit card payments are accepted.
Passengers who have added a Plus, Max or Flexibiz bundle to the Starter fare, a meal or in-flight voucher may be included, depending on the flight.
THE VERDICT
Singapore
The flight was on-time and comfortable. This is a no-frills service that speedily gets you from A to B at a price that will suit any holiday or business budget. The fact that the experience is very similar to that of Jetstar Australia only adds to the familiarity and trust factor.
Tie it all in with the Qantas group ownership and Frequent Flyer options, and it’s a decent offering to leverage your loyalty.
Flying from Australia connecting via Changi onto new routes like Singapore to Okinawa in Japan is also an easy and affordable way to get to the south of Japan bypassing Tokyo.
THE DEETS
Aircraft: Airbus A320
Class: Economy (Seat 1B)
Flight time: Departs Bangkok 0920, Journey two hours and thirty-five minutes arriving Singapore Changi Airport at 1235 local time
Frequency: Jetstar Asia operates three daily services between Bangkok and Singapore
Baggage: Checked baggage is chargeable on the Starter and Bundle fare types, while Max Bundle includes 20kg of checked luggage
Loyalty: Qantas Frequent Flyer and One-world
More information: jetstar.com.au
Matt flew as a guest of Jetstar Asia and Qantas.
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- READ: FLIGHT REVIEW: Qantas Business Class A330/200 – SIN-SYD
- READ: FULL SPEED AHEAD: Qantas announces profit and new First Lounge in Singapore
