Inbizzy, Jakarta, —Low-cost airline Jetstar Asia has officially ceased all operations across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia. The decision marks the end of the Singapore-based carrier’s more than two-decade journey serving the region’s budget travel market.
The airline’s final flight took off from Singapore’s Changi Airport on Thursday, July 31, 2025, bound for Kuala Lumpur under flight number 3K685. The flight symbolized the closing chapter of Jetstar Asia’s role in regional air connectivity.
Emotional Farewell on Final Day
The departure of Jetstar Asia’s final aircraft was met with emotion and solemnity. Airport ground staff lined the runway, waving as the plane took off. Many crew members, including long-serving flight attendants, were visibly moved.
“I still can’t believe this is my last day with Jetstar Asia,” said Jocelyn Chow, a senior flight attendant with 13 years of service, as quoted by CNA
“I wanted to give my best on this final flight — it might also mark the end of my career in the skies.”
Another flight attendant, Flora Foo, who worked with Jetstar Asia for 14 years, reflected on the personal connections built over the years.
“We weren’t just transporting people from one place to another. Small gestures like a thank-you from passengers meant a lot to us,” she shared.
Layoffs and Job Transition Efforts
The closure has resulted in the termination of approximately 500 employees. However, Jetstar Asia CEO John Simeone noted that more than half of the 900 job applications submitted by affected staff have already received job offers or interview invitations.
“Some have already been recruited by airport lounges or the broader tourism sector. We remain optimistic that all affected staff will secure suitable positions,” Simeone said.
While some former employees have taken a temporary break from the workforce, others are exploring career opportunities outside of aviation. Simeone also expressed appreciation for the industry partners who have stepped in to offer new employment paths.
Impact on Indonesia and the Southeast Asian Market
In Indonesia, Jetstar Asia had been operating several popular routes from Singapore to major cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar, and Medan. The termination of these routes is expected to affect the region’s low-cost air travel landscape and disrupt travel patterns between Indonesia and neighboring countries.
The shutdown is part of a larger restructuring strategy by Jetstar’s parent company, Qantas Group. While Jetstar Asia is being wound down, two other Jetstar units — Jetstar Airways (operating in Australia and New Zealand) and Jetstar Japan — will continue to operate.
As one of the pioneers of budget air travel in Southeast Asia, the exit of Jetstar Asia marks the end of an important chapter in the region’s aviation history.
