Jetstar Asia's Unprecedented Layoff Announcement

In a stunning move, Jetstar Asia employees received layoff notifications at 7 AM on Wednesday, the same day the news hit the general public. "It was completely unexpected—my managers were just as blindsided as we were," revealed an anonymous cabin crew member.

The cabin crew member described the experience as "ridiculous and frustrating," stating, "I've been awake since 7 AM trying to wrap my head around it. It feels quite unfair." This unexpected news followed a press release issued by the Qantas Group-owned airline at 7:22 AM, announcing its operations would cease by July 31, resulting in over 500 job losses in Singapore.

A Disheartening Notification Process

Employees received the initial layoff alert via a crew activation system typically used for mobilizing reserve staff, followed by e-mails detailing the retrenchment and a Microsoft Teams virtual town hall at 8:15 AM. Adding to the dismay, management instructed staff to avoid media discussions about the situation.

Compensation Packages Can't Mask the Impact

Affected employees will reportedly receive four weeks' salary for each year served, a performance-based bonus for FY 2025, and a "thank-you payment" estimated at S$1,200. However, many are apprehensive about the layoffs disproportionately affecting cabin crew members, whose earnings rely heavily on flight allowances.

"My basic salary is just S$1,000 a month, and with flights getting canceled left and right ahead of this closure, I’m facing a serious income drop," lamented the employee.

Flight Cancellations and Uncertain Futures

The grim outlook intensified when the employee checked the iChangi app, revealing numerous cancellations of their flights. "If today’s flights are already canceled, I dread to think what tomorrow will bring," they commented.

Factors Leading to Sudden Closure

Jetstar Asia, launched in 2004, cited rising supplier costs, airport fees, and increasing competition as reasons for its sudden decision to shut down operations. Customers impacted by the closure can expect alternative flight arrangements or full refunds.

This impending shutdown will affect 16 intra-Asia routes, including major destinations like Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, and Bangkok, although Jetstar's operations in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan will not be impacted.

Farewell to a Fan-Favorite Airline

Changi Airport Group noted that Jetstar Asia operated around 180 flights weekly and served approximately 2.3 million passengers last year, contributing roughly 3% to total airport traffic. The airline’s fleet of 13 Airbus A320 aircraft will be redirected within the Qantas Group to bolster operations in Australia and New Zealand.