Rising costs, competition force Jetstar Asia to close

Budget airline Jetstar Asia, which connects the Philippines and Singapore daily, is shutting down its operations after failing to keep up with the rising cost of flying in the region.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

In an advisory, Jetstar Asia said it has started winding down its flight schedule in preparation for its eventual closure on July 31.

Jetstar Asia said it has dealt with challenges in sustaining the business in recent years, pressured by ballooning prices of aircraft parts and airport services in Asia.

These factors are making it hard for Jetstar Asia to offer low fares in line with its business model as a low-cost airline. The airline said it has come to the decision to cease operations, promising to support workers who would lose their jobs in the process.