Update on Jetstar New Zealand Services

Update on Jetstar New Zealand Services: Puyehue-Cordon Caulle Volcano

MELBOURNE, Australia, July 1 /Medianet International-AsiaNet/ --

Jetstar is pleased to report positive news in relation to the Chilean volcanic ash cloud which has affected Jetstar's operations throughout New Zealand and Australia for much of the past three weeks.

Following assessment of the latest volcanic ash cloud forecasts, Jetstar will resume all its regular scheduled New Zealand domestic and trans Tasman services from 12 noon today (NZ local time), 1 July 2011.

Morning cancellations remain in place for services to/from Christchurch, Queenstown and Wellington until 12 noon today, 1 July 2010.

Jetstar Australia & New Zealand CEO, David Hall said over the past three weeks the ash cloud has resulted in the cancellation of over 500 New Zealand flights and disruption to tens of thousands of customers.

"We thank our customers for their patience, support and understanding during this unprecedented natural event.

"Now that full services are resuming, we are firmly focused on getting disrupted passengers safely to their destinations," he said.

Mr Hall vigorously refutes claims that Jetstar's decision to suspend flying is in anyway related to financial or cost cutting measures. He dismisses such claims as totally inaccurate.

Jetstar has recently confirmed it will face costs in excess of AUD10/NZD13 million as a result of the grounding of flights.

"We regret the impact that this event of nature has had on our customers and New Zealand communities. At Jetstar, the safety of our customers and staff is always our number priority ahead of financial gain."

"The decision to suspend operations was based entirely on Jetstar's safety first approach and rigorous internal risk assessment processes. Our decision not to operate during this time was absolutely the right one."

Jetstar has maintained flexible options in managing customers affected by the volcanic ash cloud.

Customers whose flights were cancelled as a result of the ash cloud and wish to obtain a credit voucher (to the value of the unused portion of their booking) can do so at their convenience on Jetstar.com.

Mr Hall advised that even though services were returning to normal, Jetstar will maintain a watchful eye on the movement of the ash cloud.

"While we expect to operate a normal schedule from today onwards, we will notify our customers should there be any further impact as a result of the ash cloud," Mr Hall said.

All requests for flight re-bookings and refunds must be processed by the Jetstar call centre. Contact details below.

From Australia (Freecall): 131 538
From New Zealand (Freecall): 0800 800 995
From Singapore (Freecall): 800 6161 977
Alternatively, call +61 3 9347 0091 (tolls will apply).
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