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Jetstar Airways - by Luke Morre
15 December 2006
Melbourne - Bangkok return. Very impressed for the price. I was lucky
enough to get one of the launch promotional tickets for Jetstars new
international flights. A330-200 Plane refurbished in leather with new
carpets. Looked clean. Although full, comfort and space was similar to
any economy class seats on full service airlines. Food and drink was a
bit overpriced, but they allow you to bring your own. Entertainment was
on drop down screens and was reasonable with an Australian movie.
Service was great with a mainly Asian crew that spoke fluent English.
Slightly delayed departure but made up for inflight.
Jetstar Airways - by Graeme Smith
12 November 2006
This week I had my first and last experience with Jetstar. Melbourne to
Launceston with my three children which went off without a problem but
the return flight was just the opposite. Arrived at the airport at
2.00pm for a 2.55pm departure. Upon check in I was informed, without
appology or serious explanation, that the departure was delayed by 5
hours. The departure time was subsequently pushed back another 3 times
to eventually leave 7 hours late. Each time it changed there was still
no explanation or apology forthcoming from the indifferent jetstar
ground staff. This left me with 3 children to feed and amuse for the
seven hours in the most boring airport you could find. If Jetstar had an
ounce of professionalism it would have made a simple phone call to the
number provided on the reservation, then I could have held onto our
rental car for a little longer and left the airport until it was time to
leave. When you add the cost of the extra meals and driving as well as
the shear inconvenience caused by this circus then the little extra you
pay to fly with Virgin is well worth it.
Jetstar Airways - by P Major
22 October 2006
Adelaide-Darwin return. Fine flying with Jetstar, and the second flight home mid
October we were lucky enough to enjoy allocated seating! No bun-fight any more
which is an advantage, although we were seated right at the back (when we used
to snatch the front ones). Even more disappointing is the fact we could not
choose our seats online. This was because we had booked before they announced
allocated seating (they only allow you to choose when you book). All in all,
though, a bargain at about $200 each way and service we're used to being pretty
ordinary.
Jetstar Airways - by Geoff Stanford
25 September 2006
Sydney - Avalon - Sydney. Uneventful as usual. On time departure, crew friendly
and helpful. I think we have been a bit spoiled in the past with only having
full service airlines to choose from. Now, if you want the full service
experience, pay for it and fly Qantas. If you view air travel as just a means of
getting from point A to point B, as I do, fly Jetstar and it doesn't have to
cost you a fortune and why anyone would choose to pay extra to fly Virgin for
essentially the same experience as Jetstar is beyond me.
Jetstar Airways - by Jason Robinson
12 August 2006
Brisbane to Melbourne (Avalon). Airbus A320 aircraft clean not the best seats
though. Out of the cabin crew of 5 only one was in a good mood the rest looks as
though they were there against their will!! Landed in Avalon on time.
Jetstar Airways - by Peter Schweizer
3 August 2006
Brisbane to Mackay return. Both flights packed and good value for money once in
the air on their new A320 aircraft. Outbound flight delayed an hour due to
defect aircon unit. Information flow could have been better and a glass of water
would have been nice while sitting on the tarmac even though this is a no-frills
LCC. Ground staff in Brisbane brilliant and they even gave me priority boarding
(open seating) as I am 6'8" and really need an emergency exit seat. Ground staff
in Mackay exact the opposite. Was told I would have to pay higher fare to get
priority boarding. Seems certain people can only follow company guidelines and
don't have a clue about customer service. Overall great airline but will not fly
them again until they introduce assigned seating which should be later this year
Jetstar Airways - by Mike Jackson
3 August 2006
Sunshine coast - Melbourne in Economy. First issue, one that the airline is
rectifying, is no seat allocation. All within earshot were complaining. Once on
board, the aircraft looked very good, with the grey leather seats actually quite
soft and comfortable. But if the seat pitch is any greater than 29ins. then I am
very surprised. I was jammed into my seat for the 2 hour + journey. Service was
adequate at best. The return flight was eased somewhat by getting to the airport
2 hours early to secure the prized blue pass, and then getting to the head of
the queue to be first on board after the women and children. It was cheap, but
not really worth the effort. Next time I might drive!
Jetstar Airways - by P Major
30 July 2006
Adelaide to Cairns return. Fairly uneventful flying with Jetstar, now I've got
used to the unallocated seating; however, I will be pleased when at the end of
October Jetstar will do away with the silly practice. Check-in in Adelaide was
quick and easy - first flight to Cairns for the school holidays at 6:35 didn't
see too many arrive at 5:15 to check-in, and we got our first blue boarding
passes! ADL-CNS flight okay, although rude ground staff in Adelaide; we had
staff telling a member of our group in an obnoxious manner to put a set of
headphones back in a trolley when he picked them up as they were "not for use on
this aircraft"! Still, we were didn't need to buy any headphones onboard as we
had some from a previous Qantas flight (the way to go unless you want to fork
out $3). Attendants were pretty friendly and weren't too obtrusive with the
drinks and snacks. Luggage pick-up at Cairns was a bit slow due to the fact a
Virgin Flight using the same belt had came in just before us. Return flight very
similar minus the rudeness at check- in. Bags came through a little faster in
Adelaide. Both flights were pretty much fully booked; no cordoning off of rows
this time. However, I still think, like most budget airlines, Jetstar only
survives due to price. I'm sure you wouldn't fly them voluntarily if a Qantas or
Virgin flight was a similar price.
Jetstar Airways - by Warren Barlow
24 July 2006
I have flown Newcastle to Melbourne and Newcastle to Brisbane and find Jetstar
very good (compared to Qantas). The staff are friendlier and I actually like the
free seating as I can usually be assured of getting an Exit Row (being 6'2" and
appreciating the leg room). The thing I can't fathom is that in the summer, you
can catch a Jetstar flight from Melbourne to Newcastle at around 6:30pm. In
winter, that flights leaves around 4:30pm. Unfortunately, you can't do business
leaving a clients site at 2:30pm to catch a flight. It's got me baffled why we
are reduced to catching a Qantas Link Flight in the Winter which takes 2hours 5
minutes instead of a Jetstar flight which takes 1hour 10mins. Seems like
Newcastle people are the poor relatives when it comes to Qantas and Jetstar.
Jetstar Airways - by David Rose
11 July 2006
Melbourne to Cairns at 9.45am on 9 July. Aircraft cancelled at 4am, but no-one
bothers to inform 90 per cent of passengers. No assistance in finding
alternative flights, no interest in passengers at all from the ground staff. The
attitude was "well you took a risk in booking with a low cost carrier, and the
gamble didn't pay off". Next flight was five and a half hours later. The
contrast between the very helpful cabin crew and the surly, disinterested,
obviously overworked check-in staff at Melbourne was incredible. The flight
attendants seemed to be embarrassed working for Jetstar. Verdict: To be avoided
at every cost.
Jetstar Airways - by J Boxall
5 July 2006
Brisbane to Newcastle on A320. Check in no problems at all, each destination has
it's own check-in line. They are very careful with weighing luggage, as well as
making you weigh and measure hand luggage. Crew was ready to leave early but a
few stragglers made us wait until scheduled departure time. Their new A320
aircraft are great, seats wider than usual 737s. You can choose your own seat
and the exit rows are great - no paying extra like Virgin. Service is minimal as
the crew only say hello, make sure you're belted in, and sell you drinks. I'm
sure if you needed help they'd be happy to oblige. Drinks and snacks aren't
cheap - but you don't fly low cost carriers to eat. Flight very smooth, eight
channels of audio (bring your own headphones) and flight landed smoothly on time
and safely. Bags at carousel in ten minutes - perfect.
Jetstar Airways - by Jake Marshall
1 July 2006
I usually travel Melbourne to Hobart - I've found that they treat you very
poorly on the ground, but once the plane takes off service is pretty good. That
said, I am thankful for the check in crew who allowed me to check in after I'd
missed the 30 min close (never having checked baggage helps). I've been able to
get an exit row seat most flights. Comparing it to Virgin, you can't beat
virgin's web check in for convenience if you don't have to check baggage - just
arrive with enough time to make it to the gate before departure time and you'll
be fine. Virgin sells better beer on their flight (Crown vs Tooheys New on
Jetstar). That said, Jetstar's schedules and pricing seem to consistently beat
Virgin these days. Jetstars seats are more comfortable than Virgin, although I'd
prefer narrower seats and more leg room.
Jetstar Airways - by Stephen Dowding
18 June 2006
NTL-MEL return. Have flown this route several times in the last year and have
never experienced any major problems. Check-in staff at Melbourne and Newcastle
all friendly and helpful, boarding procedure works well if people do as they're
told, and onboard service is adequate for a short- haul route. The only issue
I've had was over excess baggage using JetStar connecting from a long-haul
flight from the UK. This made a huge difference, especially being a Qantas
Silver Frequent Flyer with increased baggage allowance. Overall though , a far
better experience than flying Ryanair in Europe which was cramped, had only 15kg
baggage allowance and was a total bun-fight onboard.
Jetstar Airways - by Ian Benson
6 May 2006
BNE-ADL return. A320 planes were good - 5 FA's on each flight. Boarding system
is quite good except for older people who have all their relatives with them and
they can all get on first. We saw 5 people use the orange system with one senior
citizen. Should be the senior and one only. Otherwise good and would fly with
them again.
Jetstar Airways - by Dylan Bingham
26 March 2006
Mackay-Brisbane, flown JQ several times over the last 12 months flight was
punctual , plane was clean, service for an LCC polite, unalocated seating not a
problem if you check in early , we have had exit rows on 4 out of 6 flights by
being organised, the whole point to point carrier system is a pain and I would
not fly them to make connections, Virgin Blue do this far more satisfactorily. n
summary nice planes, okay crews but perhaps as potentially the provincial city
carrier for QF a more user friendly transfer system would win more custom from
business and international pax
Jetstar Airways - by Anthony Donohue
9 March 2006
SYD-MCY. Having flown Jetstar for the second time, have very little to complain
about. I got what I paid for. Virgin Blue does offer more service especially at
check in and boarding but cannot really complain got there on time.
Jetstar Airways - by David Amor
9 February 2006
Sydney-Christchurch. Competitive prices and convenient schedules won me over.
Check in at Sydney took 1hr, seat pitch is really quite tight but for the price
I guess you get what you pay for. Return trip ? Two JetStar flights leaving
30mins apart. 2 check in counters for each flight, 90 minutes to get thru.
(Irritatingly Qantas had 4-6 almost empty check in counters with staff having
nothing to do). Seat pitch really was an issue on the return as pax in front
reclined seat early, leaving hardly enough room to read a book let alone a
newspaper. Won't talk about food, eat before flight and have drink if you need
one. Cabin crew were OK both ways.
Jetstar Airways - by Dianne Frazer
21 December 2005
I have flown Jetstar numerous times over the past year and think this is a good
airline. I've had delays due to weather or due to another fellow passenger
taking his/her time to get to the gate or for unseen reasons which sometimes
just can't be helped. I don't think any airline sets out to inconvenience their
passengers as some first time flyers or uneducated Jetstar passengers seem to
think. They do things a little differently but it's just a case of getting use
to a different system. If expecting first class comforts, pay for a first class
ticket and fly another airline.
Jetstar Airways - by Peter Thwaites
19 December 2005
SYD to OOL. Arrived in Sydney on an international flight. Taken to Qantas
domestic terminal, then had to find our way to Terminal 3 , the terminal for
Jetstar. When we arrived they were checking in a flight to the Gold Coast, but
as we were booked on a later flight, would not check our luggage in. We were
travelling on Qantas Frequent Flyer tickets and because Qantas only have two
flights a day to the Gold Coast, we had to travel Jetstar. The annoying thing
being, no other flights were being checked in during the three and a half wait
we had to check in. They told us our luggage would go astray if checked in too
soon. How could they go astray, as the next flight and only flight checked in
was our flight to the Gold Coast. I do not believe the information we are fed
that Jetstar carries more passengers than Virgin nand is more efficient. The
Virgin counters were no far away and all check in counters (11), Jetstar (3)
were flat out and most flights listed on the departure board were Virgin
flights. It was a scramble to get on board and find a seat as the plane was full
of "Schoolies" going to the Gold Coast, most of them being girls and the noise
they created on board was deafening - screams and yelling for the hour flight.
The cabin crew were very pleasant and one steward did apologize for the noise,
which naturally, was not his fault. Jetstar would be much better if they did
something about the checking in. I would never travel with them again if
transferring from an international flight. If this is their way of doing things,
I cannot see them being successful when they start going international. I know I
would never travel with them.
Jetstar Airways - by Roderick Eime
13 December 2005
Cairns - Sydney. I've grumbled about Jetstar before, but this time I really was
left totally unimpressed. I've flown Qantas for over 25 years, so perhaps I'm
spoilt, but this new Jetstar thing just doesn't sit right with me. I watched two
checkin clerks treat every passenger, and then me, with utter contempt. The
underlying message: "If you're so tight-ar$ed to fly Jetstar, then what do you
expect?" First time in over thirty years of flying I was charged for excess
baggage. "You're x-kilos overweight. That'll be thirty-five dollars. How would
you like to pay for that, sir?" Stony-faced (thing) stares me out. "Will cash be
okay?" I respond after a suitably uncomfortable pause. Even though I am in the
first dozen checked passengers, I still get the second stampede. Flight is
packed, but still doesn't stop hosties having a sit-down and chit chat. When I
say it's like flying Franklins, Aussies will know what I mean (!) Had to laugh
when I heard Mr Dixon proudly announce this "airline model" is ready for the
international market.
Jetstar Airways - by Nick Russell
24 November 2005
Gold Coast to Sydney. I always like to check in early and with Jetstar it really
does pay to. As other reviewers have mentioned there is no seating allocated at
check-in but if you are early you get a higher priority boarding pass and can
therefore get on the plane sooner and have a better chance of grabbing a good
seat. After reading the horror stories, I found Jetstar was surprisingly
efficient. Flight on time, staff professional, drink and food prices reasonable.
$29 total for the fare was very good - in fact the only reason I went to Sydney
at all. Improve seat pitch and I would fly more often.
Jetstar Airways - by Edmund Carew
15 November 2005
Edward Cogdon is correct. Depending on the month, Jetstar can cancel flights to
and from AVV. If four return SYD-AVV-SYD services are scheduled, often only
three run. Not so much a problem in school holidays, but beware on days like
Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday in off peak times such as August, November and
February. In 2005 for almost a month, the ADL-AVV-ADL did not operate Weds and
Sats although shown in timetable as 'daily.' In contrast, most DJ flights
operate as advertised - as they should.
Jetstar Airways - by Kieran McGregor
20 October 2005
Melbourne to Hobart return, both on Airbus A320, which is pitched as having
leather wide seats. MEL-HBT flight was almost empty which gave all pax a great
seat choice. Must say, having flown Qantas domestic earlier this year, that
Jetstar wins my vote. Ok, so I paid $60 AUD return but they are good and fill a
niche. After the grumbling QF staff in July ( MEL-SYD), it was refreshing to
have a cabin crew who where polite, answered questions and where helpful. And $5
for a glass of wine is fine given you pay that domestic QF anyway. They
specialise in quick turnaround, so my only gripe is that both flights where
delayed 20 mins due to the incoming plane running late and then needing
re-servicing. Otherwise, clean aircraft, courteous crew and easy check-in
procedure.
Jetstar Airways - by Edward Congdon
9 September 2005
Melb (Av) Syd and return same day a few times this month. Think 5-30 departure
from Sydney too early if they are trying to attract business. Also disgusted
that Avalon has no wifi for laptop -but not surprised as there isnt even mobile
reception at some parts of Kingsford Smith and in the early days same at Avalon.
Only Optus and Telstra wifi at Kingsford Smith. (no iPass) What about an open
hotspot at both airports? It is so grasping to charge for a basic internet
service.. I like the car park access at Avalon as I and others have missed a
flight because the long term car parking coach at Tullamarine is tardy. No such
problem at Avalon. Also no toll charges and the rate is cheaper for the day.
Could we have credit card entry and exit like Tulla? But all those speed humps
on entry -they wreck front ends ! I find Jetstar also does not increase the fare
rate to some enormous amount like Virgin and Qantas as departure date
approaches. But as posted earlier, book a long term commitment with wariness.
Jetstar Airways - by Alasdair Brooks
31 August 2005
Jetstar is merely an excuse for Qantas to maximise profits by cutting services
on flights that aren't typically used by business travellers. By pretending that
Jetstar is a 'new', 'budget', airline, Qantas can minimise criticism that would
have been directed their way if they'd tried to cut services on ordinary Qantas
flights while also cutting into the profits of chief rivals Virgin Blue.
Tasmania in particular has been badly affected by the introduction of Jetstar,
with a majority of flights on Qantas/Jetstar now with the 'new' airline (see
Simon East's comments below). My wife flew Melbourne-Hobart this week on
Jetstar; she had a full-price ticket paid for by her company, so was able to
board early, but in all other respects it was the worst flight she's ever had in
Australia. Fortunately for her, she flies back with Qantas. Unless our employers
are paying, neither of us will fly Jetstar again - why would anyone when Virgin
Blue is more or less equal in fare but so much better in service and
convenience?
Jetstar Airways - by R Pickering
20 August 2005
Flew Melbourne-Launceston-Sydney. My ticket price was excellent although it
meant I was low priority for boarding, but if you arrive at the airport early
enough and head to the gate area then it's no problem. I still fail to
understand how no seat allocation makes my ticket price lower! Flights were fine
although a little cramped with minimal legroom and staff were friendly enough
although they were a little aloof. Two FAs discussed a fellow passenger in full
hearing range of myself and those around me. Not quite professional! Food
selection is good if you want to buy anything. I think I was lucky as my flights
were on-time and were not cancelled (unlike other flights on the same day I was
travelling).
Jetstar Airways - by Edward Congdon
16 August 2005
For the second time Jetstar have cancelled flights which have mucked up my
itinerary for a holiday interstate. I regard it as a useless airline now to book
any way ahead or base any plans upon. There is too much risk of the cheap, or
even not so cheap, flight that you reserved, being cancelled, and you then
cannot get the same fare or connection, let alone the let down feeling and
hassles of hotels to be cancelled. I also find it outrageous that they require
transfer of funds from an account within a day to make a booking, yet when you
are forced to cancel because of them, they want two weeks to transfer the funds
back !! I suspect that a lot of people pay by credit card and thus have to pay
interest on the monies for the period the booking is outstanding, whilst Jetstar
earns interest on prepaid monies on the money market.
Jetstar Airways - by Sean Hertmanni
8 August 2005
Sydney - Coolangatta - Sydney. The flight was quite full. Was the new A320
Aircraft with leather seats. Though Jetstar have a few issues with staff, at
Check I, only 3 staff members were on, doing 3 destinations at once. The
boarding system is quite dis-organised as there are no seating arrangements on
the aircraft. They use Orange, Blue and Silver Passes for boarding. Boarding
commenced after the other passengers disembarked, and we quickly boarded the
aircraft. Meals were served, and after 45 minutes we prepared for landing. On
the way back, Flight was delayed from Sydney for about 30 mins, later resulting
in another 20 minute delay for cabin staff change. I recommend Jetstar as you
get more than you pay for as a discounted Legroom a bit cramped, But I give it a
3 out of 5.
Jetstar Airways - by Tim Linsley
8 August 2005
Sydney-Hobart rtn on Jetstar. Service OK, flights on time but nothing special.
The facilities in Hobart are atrocious, with totally inadequate waiting room
-needed at least another 50 seats before the boarding scrum. Seated at the back
of the cabin, the pitch on the seats is inadequate, and I pity the poor person
who sat next to me, who received plentiful pokings from my elbows. With the
pricing parity between JQ and Virgin, I will be staying with Virgin, who at
least pretend to care.
Jetstar Airways - by Kenneth Cheng
2 August 2005
Gold Coast (Coolangatta) - Melbourne (Tullamarine). The A320 was a very new
aircraft. The black leather seats were very comfortable. I somehow find it much
more comfortable than Emirates Economy, which was really a nightmare! The cabin
manager was very unfriendly, but another rather senior flight attendant was
friendly and provided excellent service on a budget flight. Our flight took off
on time and landed at Tullamarine just as scheduled. Really warm service and a
great first-time experience on an Australian domestic.
Jetstar Airways - by Edmund Carew
25 July 2005
Simon East's comments are accurate. At a conference, delegates from Hobart
mentioned that Jetstar had received so much negative publicity that many locals
now autmoatically booked Virgin Blue. Qantas deserves praise for trying to cut
unionised costs with Jetstar, but Virgin is better regarded for on-time running
and friendly service than Jetstar, with a recent Consumer Association survey
suggesting consumers ranked Virgin Blue ahead of the two others on every
indicator except in-flight entertainment.
Jetstar Airways - by Ryan Michaels
19 July 2005
SYD-AVV. Smooth check-in at Sydney and the "staggered", no seat allocation
boarding seemed to work okay, though still having trouble making the connection
between it and a reduced cost structure. Furthermore, on a fullish flight such
as this it means a lot of people wandering around the aircraft looking for two
seats together etc. Jetstar doesn't seem to appreciate the benefit of lower
tunraround times by boarding a plane from the front and rear doors, considering
we were made to board the rear of the plane via the stairs (rather than use the
aerobridge, somewhat odd I thought). Take off was pretty much on time and we
were offered the usual drinks, food etc to purchase the one time around. Arrived
at Avalon on time where the fun really began, as another JQ plane had arrived
not long before us, there was only one set of stairs. As a result we waited
around 15 to 20 minutes to get off the plane, and again, exit through one door
only. I'm aware that the matter of poor staircase availability is probably the
responsibility of Avalon, but seeing that Jetstar appears to be its only
customer, maybe they could exercise some leverage and get them to buy another
set? Disembarked the plane and entered what I would not call a terminal so much
as a very large shed (though it appeared that they were extending it). Given
that two A320s had just arrived it was very crowded in there, with not so fond
memories of the old "express" terminal at Sydney Airport flooding back to me.
This was the first time I had flown Jetstar, and given that I fly SYD-MEL a few
times a year I was curious to try it out and compare it to Virgin Blue and
sister Qantas more than anything else. After the flight I would have to say that
despite the fact that I would rate Qantas over Virgin, given the choice between
Virgin and Jetstar I would pick Virgin. It wasn't so much that I didn't not
enjoy the flight (though the stairs incident at AVV was a joke), but it left no
indelible impression on me whatsoever. Despite the bubbly television
advertisements, the actual flying experience was dull, with the staff displaying
no personality, be it surly or pleasant, and having minimal interaction with the
passengers. If Qantas markets itself as being "More than just a seat", then
maybe it could drop the first two words of that slogan, and use it to advertise
Jetstar.
Jetstar Airways - by M Wilson
12 July 2005
I have flown JQ many times and have never had a problem, not with there
aircrafts, staff or policies. I think Australia is extremely lucky to have such
a competitive airlines to flight for the poorer Australia. Otherwise we would be
stuck with expensive airfares with just Virgin Blue and Qantas. However hope
everyone supports all three airlines because we need them all three of them to
keep airfare prices down so low!!!
Jetstar Airways - by Simon East
12 July 2005
We fly Jet Star from Melbourne to Hobart because we have to. As there are only
two Qantas flights a today it is generally impossible to get connecting Qantas
flights from international flights without having to wait for 6 hours or more in
Melbourne. So we fly Jet Star and put up with crap service, insufficient baggage
allowance and other inconvieniences. Jet Star is a significant negative to
tourism in our country. International customers un knowingly can book Jet Star
flights as part of an international flight. There were many people in Melbourne
that had got off a Qantas international flight only to be told that their
domestic flight was with Jet Star and not Qantas. As you can only check in 2
hours before your flight these people had to wait at the terminal for up to 5
hours before they could check in. Jet Star changed our flight time to an hour
earlier. This ment we would miss the flight. I called them and they said I had
to pay a fee to change my flight to a later one. After arguing the duty manager
I got them to waive the fee, but their schedule change meant we had a 7 hour
wait in Melbourne. How ridiculous for an airline to change a flight time and
then expect you to pay a fee for changing your flight if you are unable to make
it. Surely no other airline would do this? Jet Star is incredibly difficult with
excess baggage. The 20kg limit and $5 per kg excess fee is nothing more than a
means of re- couping lost revenue on their discount fares.
Jetstar Airways - by R Meltzer
15 June 2005
Sydney-Mackay-Brisbane-Sydney. This was our first and possibly last flight with
Jetstar. I would prefer to pay the extra to avoid the frustration of flying with
Jetstar We arrived for check in at Sydney, smooth, managed a blue pass so we had
reasonable seats. Several rows cordoned off...is this standard practice on all
their flights (noting above comments from several reviews)? Return fight from
Mackay to Brisbane was running 2 hours late. As we had to transfer to Qantas at
Brisbane we were not going to make our return connection. Check in attendant
(male) was very indifferent, blamed us for booked 2 different airlines, and was
quite dismissive of our plight, muttering something about fog in Newcastle in
the morning. At our insistance he bumped us to the last flight of the night from
Brisbane. There were many disgruntled passengers at Mackay Airport, and not even
an apology from Jetsar. It is apparant from talking with locals that Jetstar is
frequently late arriving at Mackay. We later approached a female check in
attendant as the plane was now almost 3 hours late and another Jetsar flight had
arrived and was leaving for Brisbane before our scheduled plane had arrived.
What a delightful young lady, she immediately booked us on this flight, gave us
an orange boarding pass so we could get off the plane quickly at Brisbane and
organised our bag to be placed on this flight. Once again seats were cordoned
off, why?? The FA's onboard were aware of our situation and had us met at the
plane by Qanats groundcrew and take us, at speed, to our connecting flight. We
arrived at Brisbane at 9pm and our departing flight was leaving at 9.10pm. The
Qantas crew were fantastic having met us at the gate with our tickets in hand
and arranging to have our luggage delivered to our home the next day. On board
FA's so concerned at our difficult situation, insisting on giving me a much
appreciated glass of wine to settle. Well done Qantas, poorly done Jetstar.
Jetstar Airways - by Andrew Wright
9 June 2005
Avalon to Sydney on an A320: Flying by myself so I had no problems with the
unallocated seating - although I did queue early. The plane itself looked very
clean and the grey leather seats were more impressive than those on the Qantas
747 I had flown in earlier. No headrest adjustment, however. The crew were
attentive and the whole flight proceeded without fuss. The real negative was the
need to catch the Sunbus coach to Avalon about an hour twenty minutes before the
flight, then sit idly by at Avalon for an age. If you want to maximise your time
in Melbourne city, fly from Tullamarine, otherwise Jetstar at Avalon could be a
good option.
Jetstar Airways - by Chrys Stevenson
4 June 2005
Bne-Whitsunday-Bne: I was concerned about booking my 81 year old mother on a
Jetstar flight because of the lack of allocated seating. However, I went ahead
and then rang the airline and asked if it would be possible for her to get an
Orange boarding pass so she would be seated in the first group of passengers. I
explained that she was completely independent, but tended to get flustered and
also bruised easily and I didn't want her jostling for a seat. 'No problem',
they said, just get to the airport 1 1/2 hours before checkout. We did this and
were given the Orange Boarding pass. When it came time to queue, I placed her at
the front of the appropriate line. Then a Jetstar employee called her name and
let her (only her) through the gate and gave her a good headstart onto the
plane. She was first on the plane and had her pick of the seats. On the return
journey, my sister- in-law got her to the airport early. When ready to board
they again called her name and put her on board first. The flight attendant was
incredibly attentive. He not only lifted her handbag up into the baggage
compartment for take-off, but returned later to get it down for her use during
the flight. She was offered a wheelchair on arrival at Brisbane airport but felt
that she could manage the stairs. When she arrived at the gate, another staff
member stopped her to ensure that she had someone to meet her. I cannot speak
too highly of the caring way in which the Jetstar staff looked after my elderly
mother. Yes, it was a pain having to be at the airport so early, but the flight
was cheap and Mum said she could not have felt more important if she'd flown
first class with Qantas.
Jetstar Airways - by M Wilson
18 May 2005
AVV-BNE-AVV. May 16 Decided to give Jetstar a shot and booked flights on net at
a good price of $69 one way, arrived at Avalon not long after the flights
check-in opened, friendly staff and the ground crew baggage handlers (i think
the lady at check-in called them EGH) even came out from the back to pick up my
Surfboard from me at the check-in counter which i thought was great, it saved me
from walking it over to the oversized belt which normally happens at most major
airports and airlines. Flight Departed on time and was on the new Airbus which
was great. Friendly service and I brought a coffee and sandwich which was pretty
cheap to what you normally pay at the airport. Arrived in Brisbane 10min early,
and on the way back to Avalon the service was great too. All and all I would
rate Jetstar 7 out of 10.
Jetstar Airways - by D Fraser
11 May 2005
My first and last flight with Jetstar was taken on Sunday 8 May on flight 870
Brisbane- Cairns. Obviously frequent flyers with Jetstar know that the grouping
system is not taken seriously which resulted in organised confusion. Those who
did take the grouping system seriously were left with the crumbs, which was made
worse as a large slice of seating was sectioned off. If my experience was a one
of then I am not prepared to take the chance and give the airline another go.
The only positive thing I can say about Jetstar is they did get us to Cairns
even if it was late.
Jetstar Airways - by Julien Froidevaux
30 April 2005
Great "happy hour fare" $135 Bris-Mel return. Travelling to Avalon and free for
all seating no big deal.717 feels a little rough ( I prefer the Airbus) leg room
not a problem for such a short distance (emergency seat quite generous
actually!) 2 problems with this airline Never experienced (in a plane) such dry
and stuffy air (a ploy to sell drinks?) thankfully refreshments are fairly
priced. Staff, except for one fellow, consisted of folksy "hey guy types" or
giggly school girl types (they could'nt even get through the safety demo without
laughing - in all honesty would prefer indifferent staff to this type of carry
on.
Jetstar Airways - by Michael Zoh
30 April 2005
SIN-TPE and return. The checking-in was very smooth and seats allocations has
improved. We did not face any problem checking-in and seats were allocated
according to our request. The cabin crews were very friendly and performed well.
The seats were not very comfortable for a 8 footer like me. The legs space are
very narrow. They are very strict with the 20kg baggage allowance and charges
for excess. Do not shop too much if you don't wish to pay the extra.
Jetstar Airways - by Stuart Wines
28 April 2005
Singapore-Bangkok one way in early April. Impressive for a low cost carrier.
Almost no line at check-in, got the aisle seat I wanted. They seem very strict
about baggage allowance, weighed my carry on bag as well, so beware! Efficient
boarding by row number, nice seats and cabin environment, pleasant and smart
cabin crew. Leg room tight but as expected for an LCC. Drinks service smooth and
efficient, did not try the sandwich or hot meal on sale. Left and arrived on
time. Would definitely use again.
Jetstar Airways - by P Garde
26 April 2005
Sydney-Launceston on Jetstar on 21 April afternoon. Not a full flight &
pleasantly arrived 20 minutes early into Launceston but the aggressive &
hectoring tone of the female attendant during the exit row pre-take off spiel
was most unwelcome indeed, especially after telling her that I had read in full
the exit row safety card. Maybe Jetnanny would be more appropriate for her
vocation ? The subsequent flight form Launceston to MEL 2 days later was more
civilised & on time.
Jetstar Airways - by Malcolm Davies
26 March 2005
SYD-AVV. Chose Jetstar as I was going to the Avalon Airshow. Fare including
taxes and surcharges was AUD 82.The aircraft an A320 was new and clean.
Departure and arrival were on time. The flight was not full and I was able to
obtain a window seat without difficulty. The seat pitch did not cause problems
as the flight was short and I am only of medium height. I did not purchase any
food or drink on board as the selection was not particularly interesting and I
had breakfast at home. All in all nothing to complain about especially the
price.
Jetstar Airways - by Michelle Jackson
4 March 2005
BNE-ROK-BNE. Arrived just on the 30 minutes prior to departure and just managed
to get in before I would be forced to purchase another ticket for a later
flight. Didnt have any hassles with the free seating policy, found the line up
was similar to that when flying with Virgin and Qantas previously, everyone
pushing into line to get on board asap. Flight was short and sweet, purchased a
muffin and fruit juice for $5.50 which was cheaper than the overpriced airport
cafe. Arrived with time to spare and staff were friendly and attentive. Baggage
was available for pickup shortly after landing. Return flight arrived at
Rockhampton airport 4 hours prior to departure (due to ferry operating times
from Great Keppel Island) and had sequence number 1. Was surprised to see so
many people board ahead of me and there was a much more rushed/race feeling as
people were power-walking across the tarmac to the aircraft. Still managed to
get a window seat which as I am not overly tall was all I really wanted. In
flight the experience was similar to that on the way up, all my needs were
catered for. I would fly Jetstar again as I have previously had bad experiences
with Virgin, though if I was to choose between Jetstar and Qantas, if the price
was right I would probably choose Qantas just to get the meal and have some mild
form of entertainment. I would also like to add a note regarding the free
seating. I have since taking this flight asked a staff member how it can save
money, they advised me that it costs Qantas $8 per passenger to have a seat
allocating system. With flights as cheap as $39, $8 can make a difference. I
also asked about the seat blocking straps, unfortunately the crew aren't given
any more info about it other than that they block them because of the free
seating as if there were a seat allocation system the trim would be calculated
based on that and passengers would be seated where required, where without the
straps there is no control over where passengers sit.
Jetstar Airways - by S Johnson
24 February 2005
Sydney to Mackay and Return. Thinking that Jetstar is new I should give it ago.
Never again! Check in was alright, arriving early just to board early. The
boarding system is hopeless, I have never seen people move so quickly before. On
a very old 717 bit cramped and my table was really hard to get down. The FA's
were struggling to get through the safety demo at the same time. After the food
trolley had been through we then hardly ever saw the FA's during the flight. On
my return flight only 2 FA's serviced the cabin, while through the entire trip
the other 2 FA's were eating and chatting behind a curtain. I wonder if they get
trained in customer service?? Or it that budgeted as well?
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