Jetstar Asia - Airline Review

 
Jetstar Asia is the Singapore-based regional affiliate of Australian Jetstar Airways, the low cost subsidiary of Qantas. In 2005 Jetstar Asia formed a merger with Valuair, also based in Singapore. Both airlines continue to operate under their own brands, but you can book flights for both networks through either web site.

Jetstar Asia distinguishes itself from many other low cost brands by having a slightly higher checked baggage allowance of 20 kilograms, while most other budget carriers allow only 15 kilograms, if that. Another distinguishing feature of Jetstar Asia is that you may be able to accumulate points in Qantas' frequent flier program. Check the web site when making your booking.

Jetstar has assigned seating (this is now an international civil aviation requirement) and does allow you to select your own seat when you book on-line. However, to secure a seat in the front row or exit rows requires an added S$20 (16.45 USD). Seat size in the regular seats is comfortable enough for my extra-large frame, as is the leg room. I wouldn't want to make a long flight in that seat, but for a two or three hour hop, it's comfortable enough.

As with almost all low cost carriers, you'll pay for all on-board services, except (for now) the bathroom. Blankets rent for S$4 (3.29 USD), newspapers for S$2 (1.64 USD) and drinks or snacks will run around S$3 (2.47 USD) each. More substantial meals are usually available, depending on the length of the flight. On one flight, I splurged the S$8 (6.58 USD) for the "gourmet" sandwich, which in this case was turkey on cranberry bread. It was good, although not well presented, but I wouldn't have paid that much for it on the ground. Still, Jetstar has won accolades for the quality of their food.

On the whole, Jetstar is my preferred low cost carrier for getting around Southeast Asia.